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Thursday, November 12, 2026 Updated 3:09 PM Central Time 2096 stories

Physical attacks

Stories about this topic, from the outlets we read.

Persecuted church

Nigerian Military Kills Six Boko Haram Insurgents in Adamawa State

Truth Nigeria Nigeria

The Nigerian military repelled a Boko Haram assault in Adamawa State, killing six insurgents, according to Truth Nigeria. Reverend Manasseh Mbafe of the Christian Association of Nigeria confirmed the victory in a local government area, noting that injured Christians are being evacuated. This event follows a pattern of targeted attacks on Christian settlements in the region since January 2026. While the military claims a tactical setback for the terrorists, local leaders warn of an existential crisis as militants continue to destroy churches, clinics, and displace communities near the Sambisa Forest corridor. (Source: Truth Nigeria)

Persecuted church

Report Details Jihadist Attacks on Christians in Nigeria's Middle Belt

Intersociety Nigeria Nigeria

A Nigerian organization released a report documenting jihadist attacks against Christians and their churches. The data covers a recent period in late 2026. The outlet specifies that these incidents occurred particularly in Nigeria's Middle Belt region. The report aims to provide collected evidence regarding the violence faced by the Christian community during this timeframe. According to the outlet, the findings highlight the ongoing security challenges in the area. The summary serves to inform readers about the specific incidents recorded by the organization, emphasizing the persistent threats to believers in this part of the country.

Persecuted church

Polish Priest Forgives Attacker After Deadly Monastery Stabbing

ZENIT (Arabic) Poland

Following a knife attack at a Benedictine monastery in Jaroslaw, Poland, on September 24, Father Adrian Mantykiewicz returned to the altar to preach forgiveness. The assault by a 31-year-old Ukrainian man killed Father Stanislaw Zubowicz and injured four others. According to ZENIT, Mantykiewicz urged the faithful not to blame the attacker's nationality, emphasizing that one individual is responsible for the crime. He cited Christian teachings on love and asked for prayers for the suspect's repentance, the victim's soul, and the healing of the wounded. Archbishop Adam Szal expressed solidarity with the victims' families.

Translated from العربية

Persecuted church

Mob Attack Forces Early End to Santali Bible Convention in West Bengal

Radio Veritas Asia India

A mob attack on a church in a village in West Bengal forced the early closure of a Santali Bible convention. Approximately 200 individuals vandalized banners and threw stones at a local Christian center, injuring several believers who attempted to defend the premises. Local authorities ordered the gathering to disperse citing security concerns. A church leader condemned the violence and alleged government silence. The event, which had registered over 1,900 participants, ended two days ahead of schedule to ensure attendee safety. This incident highlights the ongoing persecution faced by Christians in the region, prompting urgent calls for protection and justice from religious communities.

Persecuted church

Caritas condemns Russian drone strike on Odessa aid center

DOMRADIO.DE Ukraine

Caritas International strongly condemned a Russian drone attack on a Ukrainian Caritas facility in Odessa. Oliver Müller, the organization's head, expressed shock that the strike occurred just minutes after staff and beneficiaries were meeting inside. The explosion caused significant damage, temporarily halting aid services. Müller stated that targeting civilian infrastructure violates international law. The organization continues to support its staff's mental health while preparing winter assistance for millions of Ukrainians facing energy shortages. The UN estimates that 2.1 million people will require winter aid.

Translated from Deutsch

Illustrative photo: An aerial view of a city with a river running through it
Illustrative photo, not from the original report · Photo by Martti Salmi on Unsplash
Good news and persecution

Polish priest urges forgiveness after attack; Pope Leo XIV joins St Peter tomb documentary

ZENIT (Arabic) Poland

In Poland, a priest has called for forgiveness following a personal assault, emphasizing the need for mutual care. Meanwhile, in Vatican City, Pope Leo XIV is participating in a new documentary about the tomb of Saint Peter, tracing the site from the original basilica to recent archaeological findings. Additionally, in South Korea, Seoul is launching a new application to prepare for the upcoming World Youth Days. The event highlights art as a path to divine beauty, reflecting on how Jesus worked with his hands. These developments highlight religious leadership, historical preservation, and youth engagement across Europe and Asia.

Translated from العربية

Persecuted church

Suspected Terrorists Attack Three Villages in Nigeria's Adamawa State

Morning Star News Nigeria

Suspected Islamic terrorists attacked three predominantly Christian villages in a region of Adamawa State, Nigeria. The assaults resulted in at least one death and the burning of a church, homes, and other properties. Residents identified the attackers as Boko Haram and ISWAP militants. Local officials and community members expressed deep concern over the rising insecurity, calling for urgent government intervention to protect civilians. This incident adds to the ongoing violence in northeastern Nigeria, where Christian communities face significant threats from jihadist groups seeking to impose strict Islamic law.

Also reported by 1 other outlet

Persecuted church

Three charged over church ritual burning children in Kenya

The Star Kenya (general) Kenya

Three individuals appeared in a Kenyan court in Bondo, Siaya County, charged with managing an unregistered church and causing harm to minors. Prosecutors allege that during an exorcism ritual on October 4, 2026, one accused poured hot water on three children, resulting in severe burns. Two victims remain hospitalized. The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions stated the defendants violated the Societies Act by operating without registration. The accused denied all charges before the Resident Magistrate. The court set bail conditions for the defendants while the case proceeds to determine the validity of the allegations regarding the religious activities and the injuries sustained by the minors.

Persecuted church

Fact-finding team investigates alleged attacks on Christians in West Bengal

Matters India India

A fact-finding team led by a Trinamool Congress MP visited a region in West Bengal to investigate alleged attacks on Christian communities. The delegation reported incidents including threats against families in a village and vandalism at a retreat center near a city. The group claims these actions were carried out by members of a specific organization to force conversions. The team also met with a senior church leader, who expressed concern over rising hostility. Reports indicate that Christians face intimidation, social boycotts, and obstacles in accessing civic rights. The team described these developments as a threat to the region's pluralistic heritage and called for protection of religious freedom.

Persecuted church

Mob Attacks Christian in Pakistan Over Blasphemy Accusation

InfoChretienne Pakistan

According to InfoChrétienne, a mob in Pakistan attacked a Christian man following accusations of blasphemy. The incident highlights the ongoing dangers faced by religious minorities in the country, where blasphemy laws are frequently used to target vulnerable communities. The outlet reports that the crowd turned violent against the individual, underscoring the severe risks associated with such allegations in the region. This event serves as a stark reminder of the persecution Christians endure in Pakistan.

Translated from Français

Persecuted church

Cardinal Pizzaballa reports mixed situation in Jerusalem and Gaza

DOMRADIO.DE Israel

Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the highest-ranking Catholic church leader in Jerusalem, described the current situation in Israel and Palestine as mixed. According to Vatican News, incidents of violence and intimidation against Christians in Jerusalem have slightly decreased due to increased media and official attention. However, he noted that Israel no longer discusses a two-state solution, with society feeling fragmented and angry. In Palestine, Christians lack trust amid perceived lawlessness. The humanitarian situation in Gaza is worsening with winter approaching. Pizzaballa plans to visit Gaza soon to highlight these issues.

Translated from DeutschAlso reported by 1 other outlet

Good news and persecution

Drone attack hits aid truck in Tigray, Ethiopia

Agenzia SIR Ethiopia

A drone strike damaged a food convoy in northern Ethiopia on September 20, according to Catholic Relief Services. The truck, carrying 41 tons of supplies for internally displaced persons in a local village, was hit on a regional road. The agency’s representative stated that while the driver survived, the attack disrupted vital aid. The US State Department condemned the incident on September 22 and demanded an investigation. This event highlights ongoing security risks for humanitarian corridors as conflict escalates in the region, with the Tigray People's Liberation Front recently resuming hostilities against the federal government. Aid groups stress the need for protected routes to ensure food reaches vulnerable populations.

Translated from ItalianoAlso reported by 1 other outlet

Persecuted church

Hindu activists vandalize Catholic church in West Bengal

UCA News India

Approximately 200 activists attacked a Catholic church in a village in West Bengal, accusing missionaries of converting Hindus. The group vandalized the premises, including statues and gates, while beating parishioners who resisted. A local priest reported that police controlled the situation but did not arrest the perpetrators. A senior bishop described the incident as severe violence, prompting a police complaint. The attackers cited cow-protection and anti-conversion sentiments, while church officials denied any proselytizing activities during the prayer convention. This event highlights the ongoing tensions faced by Christian communities in the region due to religious intolerance.

Persecuted church

Suspected antisemitic attack on wheelchair user in Berlin

IDEA Germany

Hans-Georg Lindenau was attacked in Berlin after displaying signs against antisemitism in his shop. The incident allegedly involved youths who objected to the anti-Jewish hate posters. IDEA reports the attack is suspected to be motivated by antisemitism. The event highlights ongoing tensions regarding public displays of intolerance in the German capital. Lindenau's action to oppose hatred appears to have triggered the violence against the wheelchair user. Authorities are investigating the motive behind the assault.

Translated from Deutsch

Persecuted church

Afghan Christians Survive Under Taliban Surveillance and Persecution

Christian Today Japan (クリスチャントゥデイ) Afghanistan

Since the Taliban took control, Christians in Afghanistan face severe persecution, ranking high on global watch lists. Converts from Islam risk execution under strict laws, while surveillance and honor-based violence threaten believers in urban areas. Underground church gatherings are extremely dangerous, and digital communications are monitored. Many refugees returning from neighboring countries encounter additional hazards. A local believer describes life as precarious, yet maintains hope despite constant fear and pain, highlighting the resilience of the faith community under intense pressure.

Translated from 日本語

Persecuted church

Researcher links attacks on Christians to lack of education and rising extremism

bokra.net Israel

Yiska Herani, director of the Freedom of Religion Data Center, stated that attacks on Christians in Israel require police action and educational reform. This comment followed vandalism of a Maronite prayer hall in Nahariya, condemned by the Maronite Diocese of Haifa. Herani linked the incidents to ignorance about Christianity and rising religious extremism. Her center documented 96 incidents against Christians in the third quarter of 2026, mostly in Jerusalem. The center urges authorities to investigate complaints and protect victims, emphasizing that tolerance does not mean silence regarding aggression.

Translated from العربية

Persecuted church

Violence Allegations Disrupt Santali Bible Convention in West Bengal

Matters India India

A Santali Bible Convention in a village in West Bengal, India, was disrupted amid allegations of assault and forced conversion. Local Catholic representatives stated that a crowd gathered near the site, leading to verbal abuse and physical confrontations. Police intervened to restore order. The organizers, who are Santali-speaking Catholics, denied the conversion claims, describing the event as a pre-announced religious gathering. Meanwhile, a Hindu group organized a counter-protest, escalating tensions. Church officials have filed a complaint and requested police protection for the remaining days of the convention. Authorities are investigating the incident to ensure communal harmony and lawful resolution.

Persecuted church

Israel restricts Palestinian olive harvest access in West Bank

Agenzia SIR Palestinian Territories

The Israeli group Peace Now reports that the army has significantly expanded restricted zones in the West Bank ahead of the olive harvest. Access to approximately 88,300 dunams of olive groves now requires military authorization, a 30 percent increase from 2025. Peace Now attributes this to a policy of expropriation supported by authorities, noting that new settler outposts in Jenin have added to the closures. In Taybeh, priests report violence and theft by settlers. The olive sector is vital for the Palestinian economy, valued at 240 million dollars, yet nearly 20 percent of these groves face access barriers.

Translated from Italiano

Persecuted church

Lakurawa Terrorists Expand Into South Kebbi With Gangs

Truth Nigeria Nigeria

A retired colonel reported that the Al-Qaeda-linked Lakurawa group is expanding its influence into southern Kebbi State, Nigeria. The expert states that jihadists are collaborating with Fulani militias and criminal kidnapping gangs to establish a parallel authority. Recent incidents in various locations indicate efforts to subjugate Christian farming communities. The group enforces underground taxation and controls commerce through informants. This cooperation marks a shift from isolated banditry to organized ideological expansion along the Niger River corridor.

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