Jewish jeweler hospitalized after axe attack in Tunisia

Jewish Jewelry Store Owner Hospitalized After Axe Attack in Djerba, Tunisia

A shocking incident occurred in Djerba, Tunisia, where the Jewish owner of a jewelry store was hospitalized following an axe attack. The 50-year-old man was admitted to a hospital in Djerba, a place where many of Tunisia’s remaining Jewish community, consisting of 1,500 individuals, reside. Community leader Rene Trabelsi provided details of the attack to The Associated Press.

The attack took place just a week before the holiday Lag B’Omer, when Jewish pilgrims are expected to visit Djerba. The island, home to Africa’s oldest synagogue, El-Ghriba, sees thousands of visitors each year for three days of festivities during this time.

Trabelsi, a Jewish community leader who previously served as Tunisia’s tourism minister, stated that the motives behind the attack are not yet clear. He emphasized the importance of waiting for the findings of Tunisian authorities before jumping to conclusions about the incident.

Despite the traumatic event, Trabelsi expressed his trust in Tunisian authorities and their ability to handle the situation. He mentioned that the store owner, who sustained defensive wounds, is expected to be discharged from the hospital soon.

In response to the attack, Tunisian police have heightened security measures on the island to ensure the safety of residents and visitors.

This incident is reminiscent of a tragic event that occurred two years ago, where a Tunisian national guardsman killed two Jewish pilgrims and three security officers during the festival. As a result, festivities were scaled back in the following year.

At present, Tunisian authorities have not issued any statements regarding the recent attack in Djerba.