A Jewish jeweler was violently attacked with an axe near Africa’s oldest synagogue in Tunisia, raising concerns just days before a major religious pilgrimage that draws thousands of worshippers annually.
At a Glance
- A 50-year-old Jewish jewelry store owner was attacked with an axe on Djerba Island, Tunisia
- The attack occurred near the historic El-Ghriba synagogue, days before the Lag Ba’Omer pilgrimage
- The victim sustained defensive wounds but is expected to be discharged from hospital soon
- Security has been increased following the attack, which comes two years after a terrorist incident at the same location killed five people
- The motive remains unclear and the assailant’s identity is unknown
Attack Details and Victim Status
A violent axe attack targeted a 50-year-old Jewish jeweler on Djerba Island, Tunisia, sending shockwaves through the small Jewish community. The incident occurred near the El-Ghriba synagogue, a site of immense historical and spiritual significance as Africa’s oldest synagogue. The victim, who owns a jewelry store in the area, was hospitalized with what community leader Rene Trabelsi described as “defensive wounds,” indicating the man had attempted to protect himself during the assault.
The jeweler is reportedly in stable condition and medical professionals expect him to be discharged from the hospital soon with promising recovery prospects. Authorities have not released the victim’s identity, but local sources confirm he is a member of Tunisia’s small remaining Jewish population, which numbers approximately 1,500 people, with many concentrated on Djerba Island.
Timing and Security Concerns
The attack’s timing has heightened concerns, as it occurred just days before the annual Lag Ba’Omer pilgrimage to the El-Ghriba synagogue. This celebration typically draws thousands of Jewish worshippers from around the world to the historic site. The proximity to this major religious gathering has prompted Tunisian authorities to immediately bolster security measures throughout the island, particularly around Jewish community sites.
“We fully trust Tunisian authorities because we’re Tunisian too” Trabelsi said.
This year’s pilgrimage was already facing scrutiny following a deadly attack at the same location two years ago, when a terrorist incident during Lag Ba’Omer celebrations resulted in the deaths of two Jewish worshippers and three police officers. Last year’s pilgrimage faced potential cancellation due to security concerns before ultimately proceeding with limited attendance. Organizers have indicated that this year’s events “will be limited” in scope, likely in response to ongoing security challenges.
Investigation and Community Response
Tunisian officials have not yet released a formal statement regarding the attack, and details about the assailant remain scarce. The motive behind the attack is currently unclear, with no immediate evidence pointing to religious or political motivations. Rene Trabelsi, a prominent community leader and former Tunisian tourism minister, has cautioned against jumping to conclusions about the attacker’s motives.
Despite the violent nature of the incident, Trabelsi expressed confidence in Tunisian authorities’ ability to investigate the attack thoroughly and protect the Jewish community. The El-Ghriba synagogue holds particular significance for Tunisia’s Jewish population, which once numbered over 100,000 people but has diminished significantly since the mid-20th century. The synagogue itself dates back more than 2,500 years, making it not only a religious center but also a testament to the long history of Jewish presence in North Africa.
Historical Context and Future Concerns
This attack adds to a troubling history of violence targeting the El-Ghriba synagogue. Beyond the 2022 terrorist attack, the site was also bombed in 2002 in an Al-Qaeda-linked attack that killed 21 people. These recurring incidents have raised questions about the safety of Tunisia’s Jewish minority and the security of religious sites in the region. The pattern of violence has particular significance given Tunisia’s position as home to one of the few remaining Jewish communities in the Arab world.
As authorities continue their investigation and security preparations for the upcoming pilgrimage, the international community watches closely. The incident occurs against a backdrop of rising antisemitism globally and ongoing tensions in the Middle East, though no direct connection has been established between these broader trends and the attack in Djerba. For now, the focus remains on the victim’s recovery and ensuring the safety of Tunisia’s Jewish community.
