In a shocking incident that has sparked widespread condemnation, a group of Haredi Jews accosted Christian pilgrims near the Lions' Gate in Jerusalem while repeatedly spitting. The footage has ignited a political firestorm, with leaders from across the political spectrum expressing outrage over the act.
Video: Haredi Jews accost Christian pilgrims / Use under section 27a of Israel's intellectual property law
Elisha Yered, a former spokesperson for the Otzma Yehudit MK Limor Son Har-Melech, initially defended the incident, claiming that spitting near churches and priests is an ancient Jewish tradition."Perhaps due to Western cultural influence, we have forgotten what Christianity is. But I believe that millions of Jews who have suffered through crusades, inquisitions, blood libels, and pogroms will never forget," he wrote on Twitter. This made the crisis even worse, prompting a slew of condemnations.
Follow Israel Hayom on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu took to Twitter to respond to the incident, stating in English, "Israel is committed to safeguard the sacred right of worship and pilgrimage to the holy sites of all faiths. I strongly condemn any attempt to intimidate worshippers, and I am committed to taking immediate and decisive action against it."
Later, he reiterated a similar message in Hebrew. Prominent political figures in Israel expressed their shock and dismay over the spitting incident, including Chief Ashkenazi Rabbi David Lau, who said, "Such incidents do not have anything to do with Halachah [Jewish law]." He noted that in ancient times, "during the holiday of Sukkot, people prayed and offered sacrifices at the Holy Temple for the well-being of the 70 nations of the world. We will continue to pray for their well-being and honor all the nations that come to honor the holy city of Jerusalem."
A senior Israeli official stated, "If the roles were reversed, and Christians were spitting on Jews anywhere in the world, we would rightfully be outraged. Such behavior should not be tolerated here."
Foreign Minister Eli Cohen also condemned the incident, saying, "I condemn the disturbing phenomenon of spitting on Christians and harming anyone because of their faith or beliefs. This behavior does not represent Jewish values. Freedom of religion and worship are fundamental values in Israel. Hundreds of thousands of Christian tourists visit our country every year to see the holy sites, and I call on all Israeli citizens to respect the traditions and faith of all those who come to Jerusalem, the holy city."
Israel is totally committed to safeguard the sacred right of worship and pilgrimage to the holy sites of all faiths.
I strongly condemn any attempt to intimidate worshippers, and I am committed to taking immediate and decisive action against it.
— Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) October 3, 2023
Tourism organizers also condemned the incident, with the umbrella body saying, "We strongly condemn the violent behavior that goes against the basic values of Judaism and damages the economy of Jerusalem, which relies on tourists who visit the holy city from all corners of the world. Incoming tourism is a strategic asset for the country, and this behavior tarnishes our reputation."
Tourism Minister Haim Katz added, "Spitting on Christians is a reprehensible and disgraceful act. 'Love your neighbor as yourself' is a fundamental principle in the Torah and Judaism. Instead of being a light unto the nations, the actions of extremists like this harm Judaism, the Jewish people, and Israel's reputation. We must show zero tolerance for those who engage in such behavior."
In response to the incident, Member of Knesset Elazar Stern (Likud) proposed legislation that would classify spitting on people based on their religion as an act of violence, allowing for legal action against perpetrators.
Subscribe to Israel Hayom's daily newsletter and never miss our top stories!
