Christians in the Holy Land are facing a troubling increase in aggression and intolerance from radical Jewish extremists, according to a newly released report from the Jerusalem-based Rossing Center for Education and Dialogue. The report highlights a disturbing rise in attacks against Churches and their members, ranging from spitting and physical harassment to property damage and disruptions of religious services.
The annual report on ‘Attacks on Christians in Israel and East Jerusalem’ calls for stronger police intervention, more condemnations from authorities and religious leaders, and better coverage in mainstream and social media.
Speaking to the Catholic foundation Aid to the Church in Need (ACN), Hana Bendcowsky from the Rossing Centre discussed the findings, which are categorized as ‘smash’ and ‘squeeze’ incidents.
‘Smash’ incidents involve violence and vandalism, such as the statue of Jesus being smashed at the Church of the Flagellation in Jerusalem. These attacks are often carried out by a small minority of ultra-Orthodox Jewish men. On the other hand, ‘squeeze’ incidents include spitting and verbal harassment targeted at priests and religious individuals, making the Christian community feel unwelcome.
In 2023, there were 30 reported spitting cases, but this number is believed to be just the tip of the iceberg. Abbot Nikodemus Schnabel of the Benedictine Dormition Abbey in East Jerusalem described spitting incidents as a daily occurrence, along with arson attacks and hate graffiti directed at the monastery.
The report emphasizes the need for timely police intervention and encourages churches to report incidents promptly. It also notes that some rabbis have spoken out against attacks on Christians, reaffirming that such actions have no place in Judaism.
Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, commended the Rossing Center for documenting these cases, stressing the importance of raising awareness about the ongoing attacks.
Founded in 2006, the Rossing Center aims to promote interreligious education and foster dialogue among Israelis and Palestinians. With a diverse staff representing Jews, Christians, and Muslims, the center works to build inclusive and shared societies by teaching values of inclusivity and engagement in mixed spaces.
