Jeweler in Djerba Injured in Axe Assault

A Jewish jeweler fell victim to an axe attack on the island where Africa’s oldest synagogue is found, resulting in his hospitalization on Thursday.

The incident involved a 50-year-old from Djerba, known for hosting a significant portion of Tunisia’s remaining Jewish community of approximately 1,500 people, as noted by local community head Rene Trabelsi to The Associated Press.

This violent occurrence takes place just a week before Jewish visitors are anticipated to arrive in Djerba for the Lag B’Omer festivities. The ancient El-Ghriba synagogue, with a history spanning 26 centuries, becomes a hub of activity as Jews gather for three days of celebrations on the island.

Although details about the attacker remain scarce, Trabelsi, who previously served as Tunisia’s Minister of Tourism between 2018 and 2020, expressed the need to wait for the Tunisian authorities to investigate the attack's motivations, without assuming any religious or festive ties.

‘Our confidence in Tunisian authorities is complete, as we are also Tunisian,’ he stated.

The jeweler, injured while attempting to defend himself, is expected to leave the hospital by Friday, according to Trabelsi.

In response, Tunisian police have ramped up security measures across the island, Trabelsi added.

The attack stirs memories of an incident two years prior when a Tunisian national guardsman fatally shot two Jewish pilgrims and three security personnel during the festive season. Events proceeded without incident the previous year.

Thus far, Tunisian officials have remained silent regarding reports surrounding this attack.