A 48-year-old nun was violently attacked in central Jerusalem in a disturbing incident caught on CCTV, showing a man sprinting up from behind and assaulting her in broad daylight near a major religious landmark.
The footage shows the nun walking alone when the attacker suddenly charges at her and forcefully pushes her to the ground. She is seen falling heavily before being repeatedly kicked while lying helpless on the pavement, clutching her head in pain.
After briefly walking away, the assailant returns moments later and continues the violent assault, striking and kicking the victim again until a bystander rushes in to intervene and stop the attack.
The incident took place near the Cenacle on Mount Zion, a site of deep religious importance for Christians and Jews, traditionally believed by some to be the location of the Last Supper. Generally, attacks occurring in such sensitive locations often heighten public concern due to their symbolic and cultural significance.
Israeli police confirmed that a 36-year-old suspect was arrested shortly after the assault. Authorities said the case is being treated with “utmost severity”, particularly given the possibility of hate-related motives directed at clergy members.
The victim was left badly shaken and bruised, according to local reports. Religious officials described the attack as a “gratuitous assault”, with one cleric saying the nun was thrown to the ground with significant force before being repeatedly kicked while defenceless.
The assault has drawn strong reactions from religious leaders, diplomats and public figures, with calls for accountability and stronger protection for religious communities. Generally, such incidents have reignited wider discussions about rising tensions and the safety of minority groups in shared sacred spaces.
Authorities have stated that the suspect remains under investigation, while senior officials, including the Israeli Prime Minister, have publicly condemned the attack and urged strict action against those responsible.
