Israel Vows 'Severity' Against Attacks on Christians

Israel's commitment to protecting its Christian minority has been strongly reaffirmed by Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, who promised severe repercussions for any acts of aggression against them. This firm stance comes in the wake of a disturbing incident in Jerusalem's Old City, where a Jewish Israeli man allegedly assaulted a French nun, pushing her to the ground and kicking her. The French government has called for an exemplary sanction against the perpetrator, emphasizing its historical role in protecting Christian communities and holy sites.

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And whoever raises a hand against our Christian fellow citizens will be treated with severity.

Minister Saar, speaking alongside his German counterpart Johann Wadephul, highlighted that Christians in Israel possess the same full and equal rights as all citizens and are integrated across all societal sectors. He pointed to Israel as unique in the region for having a growing Christian population, directly countering narratives that suggest insecurity for this religious group in the Holy Land. "And whoever raises a hand against our Christian fellow citizens will be treated with severity," Saar declared, underscoring Israel's dedication to ensuring their safety and well-being.

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The sanction must be exemplary so that anti-Christian acts that are multiplying in the Holy Land cease and that France, attached to its historical mission of protection of Catholic communities and holy places, cannot tolerate under any circumstances.

Recent data indicates a worrying trend, with a 63% increase in harassment incidents against Christians in Israel during 2025, according to a report by two Israeli organizations focused on interfaith coexistence. These incidents range from spitting and verbal abuse to physical violence and vandalism of religious symbols. While the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs has assured that the attack is being taken with the utmost seriousness and that the perpetrator is in custody, the rising numbers underscore the need for continued vigilance and robust measures to combat anti-Christian sentiment and actions. From an Israeli perspective, these incidents are aberrations that do not reflect the state's policy or the general treatment of its Christian citizens, who are seen as an integral part of the nation's diverse fabric.

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The Israeli police reported the aggression in a statement and affirmed that the alleged attacker had been arrested on Tuesday night accused of a crime of 'racist aggression'.