Settler Charged With Brutal Attack on Christian Nun Near King David's Tomb
Peduel resident accused of pushing nun to ground and kicking her violently • Prosecution seeks detention until end of proceedings | Attack motivated by religious hostility (Crime & Justice)
The State Prosecutor's Office filed an indictment Thursday at the Jerusalem Magistrate's Court against Yonah Schreiber, 36, a resident of the Peduel settlement, charging him with a violent assault on a Christian nun near King David's Tomb in Jerusalem's Old City. Prosecutors are requesting that the court order Schreiber's detention until the conclusion of legal proceedings against him.
According to the indictment filed through the Jerusalem District Prosecutor's Office, Schreiber spotted the complainant dressed in traditional nun's attire and, motivated by her religious identity, made the decision to attack her. The charge sheet states that he ran toward the woman, pushed her forcefully, and caused her to fall to the ground.
While the victim lay on the pavement, Schreiber returned and kicked her with significant force. The assault resulted in facial bleeding and visible injuries to her leg, requiring medical treatment. The victim was transported to receive professional care for her wounds.
The indictment further reveals that a bystander who witnessed the attack attempted to prevent Schreiber from continuing his assault on the nun. However, Schreiber turned on this individual as well, attacking him with punches and kicks. The investigation was conducted by officers from the David District of the Jerusalem Police.
Schreiber has been charged with assault causing actual bodily harm motivated by religious hostility toward a community, as well as simple assault. The religious motivation component elevates the severity of the charges under Israeli law, reflecting the hate crime nature of the incident.
Pattern of Violence in the Old City
Recent months have seen tensions surrounding access to Christian holy sites, including restrictions that initially barred senior clergy from the Church of the Holy Sepulchre during Palm Sunday observances.
Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious or unusual incidents to the police emergency hotline at 100 or through the Israeli Police mobile application.
The Jerusalem Police emphasized their commitment to protecting all religious communities and maintaining security at holy sites throughout the Old City.
The case against Schreiber is expected to proceed in the coming weeks, with the court set to rule on the prosecution's request for extended detention.