Israeli youth reportedly detained after attack on Christian tourists

In Netanya, Israel, an 18-year-old was caught on video harassing two Christian tourists by confronting them about a cross necklace they were wearing. The footage shows the youth, identified as Nathaniel Sassi, snatching the necklace, throwing it to the ground, pouring water on the tourists, and spitting on them. The incident, which occurred on Sunday, prompted the tourists to file a complaint with local authorities. The video was shared widely on social media, drawing public condemnation.

After a 48-hour investigation, police in the Merzak District reportedly arrested Sassi, who had apparently gone into hiding. The police confirmed that they had detained him for questioning, stating that the attack was ‘on the basis of religion,’ motivated by religious intolerance. The tourists, who have been living temporarily in Israel, later released a statement thanking the public for their support.