In Israel, vandal smashes statues and crosses in Catholic church

The Church of Saint Anthony of Padua in Jaffa and the aftermath of the vandalism inside the church. Photo: Tribune chretienne

On August 16, 2026, in Jaffa, an unknown person desecrated the Catholic Church of Saint Anthony of Padua, smashing statues and several crosses. The following day, police detained a suspect, reports Tribune Chrétienne.

A report of the vandalism was received by police on Sunday morning. Law enforcement officers who arrived at the church discovered several overturned and smashed religious statues, as well as broken crosses lying on chairs and on the floor.

During the investigation, police identified the alleged perpetrator. He turned out to be a Jaffa resident approximately 20 years of age. The man was detained and taken to a police station for questioning. His name and exact age have not been disclosed.

Information is circulating on social media claiming that the detainee allegedly said: "We also venerate the Virgin Mary in Islam, but icons are forbidden." However, this statement has not been officially confirmed, and the suspect’s religious affiliation and motive have not yet been established.

The Church of Saint Anthony of Padua was built in Jaffa in 1932 and belongs to the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem. The church serves the local Catholic community. The investigation into the circumstances of the desecration of the church is ongoing.

The UOJ previously reported that Saint Martin's relics were stolen from a Catholic church in Germany.

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