Israeli police in the West Bank arrested a 36-year-old man caught on video attacking a Roman Catholic nun near David\u2019s Tomb,a holy site outside Jerusalem\u2019s Old City. Police said the attack-captured with the attacker wearing tzitzit-was racially motivated, and the suspect remains in custody. The nun suffered bruises; the attack was described by a French research-school director as sectarian violence.<\/p>\n

The incident is part of a broader pattern, according to Christian leaders, of rising harassment and violence against Christian pilgrims and residents near Jerusalem, sometimes involving ultra-Orthodox yeshiva students. they also criticize what they see as limited deterrence and inconsistent prosecutions for perpetrators.<\/p>\n

The arrest comes amid wider scrutiny of Israel\u2019s treatment of religious minorities, including recent restrictions on worship access for Muslims and Christians, and international criticism over another incident involving vandalism<\/a> of a Jesus statue in Lebanon. Israeli police said they remain committed to protecting all communities and holding those responsible accountable. <\/p>\n