In Israel, 155 attacks on Christians were recorded over the year – report

The Descent of the Holy Fire in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Photo: rossingcenter

In Israel, 155 attacks on Christians were recorded in 2025 in various areas of the country and East Jerusalem. This is reported by the Rossing Center.

According to the center's annual report, among the 155 documented incidents were 61 cases of physical violence, 52 acts of vandalism against church property, 28 episodes of insults and harassment, as well as 14 cases of destruction of Christian symbols and shrines. The authors note that clergy, monks and nuns remain most vulnerable, regularly facing humiliation and aggression, especially in the Old City of Jerusalem.

The report emphasizes that many victims do not contact the police, as they do not expect effective investigation. Researchers point to the systemic nature of the problem and insufficient protection of religious minorities. The phenomenon of "slow squeezing out" of Christians from public life through constant pressure, threats and minor acts of vandalism is also noted.

Special attention in the document is given to restrictions during Easter celebrations. In 2025, thousands of believers faced enhanced security measures when visiting the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and participating in the Holy Fire ceremony. Checkpoints, restricted access to the Christian Quarter and isolated cases of force used by law enforcement are reported.

The report also provides data on the situation in the West Bank, including attacks on the Christian town of Taybeh, arson of lands near churches and pressure from radical settlers. The authors link the deteriorating situation to the growth of radical sentiments in society and call on Israeli authorities to strengthen measures to protect Christian communities.

As reported by the Union of Orthodox Journalists, the heads of Jerusalem churches made a statement regarding the arson of a church in Taybeh. Church leaders also drew attention to the increase in violence and threats against Christians in the region, emphasizing the need for international attention to this problem.

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