Jewish Israelis filmed spitting at Jerusalem's Saint James Monastery

Six Jewish Israelis were captured on video spitting at the entrance of Saint James Monastery, a historic Christian site located in Jerusalem’s Old City. The footage, which quickly spread on social media platforms, shows the individuals approaching the monastery’s doorway and deliberately expelling saliva before walking away. Police were alerted after the video went viral and arrived at the scene to secure the area and identify the participants.

Jerusalem police opened an investigation into the incident, treating it as a possible hate‑crime and a breach of public order. Authorities emphasized that acts of disrespect toward religious sites are prohibited under Israeli law and that those responsible could face criminal charges. The incident has drawn condemnation from local religious leaders and underscores ongoing sensitivities surrounding inter‑faith relations in the city’s contested Old City district.