On April 28, 2026, a 48-year-old French nun, a member of the French Biblical and Archaeological School of Jerusalem, was brutally attacked while walking near the Tomb of King David on Mount Zion. A 36-year-old man pushed her from behind, knocked her to the ground, and repeatedly kicked her. The assault, captured by security cameras, has caused shock worldwide and once again highlighted the security concerns of Christian communities in the Holy Land.
Israeli police arrested the suspect shortly after the incident and described the act as extremely serious, suggesting it may have been motivated by racial or religious hatred. The case will be brought before the Jerusalem Magistrate's Court, where an extension of detention will be sought as the investigation continues.
The Victim and Her Research Work
The assaulted nun is a renowned researcher who has dedicated her life to the study of Scripture and biblical archaeology. According to Father Olivier Poquillon, director of the Biblical School, the sister has chosen not to speak publicly about the incident but has received support from her community and numerous Christian organizations. She suffered bruises on her face and a bleeding wound on her temple, though her condition is not serious.
This attack is not only a physical assault but also an attack on religious freedom and peaceful coexistence in a city sacred to Jews, Christians, and Muslims. The French Biblical and Archaeological School, founded in 1890, is an institution that promotes the study of the Bible in its historical and archaeological context, and its members are respected for their academic and spiritual work.
Reactions and Call to Prayer
Christian leaders worldwide have condemned the attack and expressed solidarity with the assaulted sister. Pope Leo XIV, who began his pontificate in May 2025 after the death of Francis, has called for peace and mutual respect among religions. In a message released by the Holy See, the Pope urged the faithful to pray for peace in Jerusalem and for the protection of all Christians in the Holy Land.
The Christian community in Jerusalem, though a minority, holds an invaluable historical and spiritual presence. Sites such as the Holy Sepulchre, the Mount of Olives, and the Upper Room bear witness to the faith of millions of pilgrims. However, in recent years there have been several incidents of violence and discrimination against Christians, leading international organizations to call for more effective protective measures.
The Response from Authorities
Israeli police have stated that they will thoroughly investigate the case and will not tolerate acts of violence motivated by hatred. However, human rights organizations have pointed out that a stronger commitment is needed to ensure the safety of all religious communities in the city. The Israeli government, for its part, has reiterated its commitment to freedom of worship, but the facts show that there is still work to be done.
Biblical Reflection: The Call to Peace
The Bible calls us to be peacemakers and to love our neighbors as ourselves. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus says:
"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God" (Matthew 5:9, NIV).
This passage reminds us that peace is not just the absence of conflict but the presence of justice, respect, and love. As Christians, we are called to pray for the peace of Jerusalem and to work for reconciliation among all peoples. The psalmist also exhorts us:
"Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: 'May those who love you be secure'" (Psalm 122:6, NIV).
A Call to Action
This incident calls us to reflect on our commitment to peace and interfaith dialogue. We must raise our voices against all forms of violence and work together to build a world where everyone can worship freely and safely. The Church in Jerusalem and around the world continues to pray for the healing of the sister and for an end to hatred. May this attack not sow fear but rather strengthen our resolve to be witnesses of peace and love in a divided world.
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