Attacks on Christians in East Jerusalem have surged, highlighting a troubling trend of intolerance linked to rising Israeli nationalism. In the first three months of 2026, Christians reported 31 incidents of harassment across Israel and East Jerusalem.
Approximately 180,000 Christians live in Israel, with about 10,000 residing in East Jerusalem. Last year saw 113 known attacks targeting individuals and church property. Disturbingly, 61 physical assaults specifically targeted visible clergy members such as monks and priests.
Hana Bendcowsky, programme director at the Jerusalem Center for Jewish-Christian Relations, stated, “It’s definitely increased in the last three years.” This increase raises alarms not only within local communities but also among international observers.
Palestinian Christian Shadi Awad emphasized the severity of these issues, saying, “These practices represent a clear violation of freedom of worship.” The Israeli government has faced criticism for policies perceived as pressuring Palestinians to leave their land.
In a recent incident, Israeli occupation forces demolished a Palestinian home in East Jerusalem, displacing a family. Such actions contribute to the growing tensions and fears among the Christian community.
Mazen Ghandoor, a Palestinian Christian from Ramallah, remarked on the gravity of the situation: “The situation in East Jerusalem is very difficult and unacceptable, and it provokes Christians around the world.” This sentiment echoes throughout many communities affected by these escalating tensions.
Israeli officials condemned recent attacks on clergy members as “despicable” and stated these actions have “no place” in Israeli society. Yet, many believe that military actions against Christian churches in Gaza and Lebanon are often overlooked unless international sympathy for Israel is at stake.
The future remains uncertain as observers continue to monitor these developments closely. The next steps from both local authorities and international bodies will be critical to addressing the ongoing violence against Christians in East Jerusalem.
