Jerusalem, 4 November, 2026 (TPS-IL) — Vandals have defaced the prominent archaeological and historical landmark of Tel el-Ful in northern Jerusalem, spray-painting red and black swastikas across the structure.
The graffiti was discovered by a tourist group visiting the site, which holds deep biblical significance as the biblical Gibeah, identified as the ancient capital of King Saul and the setting for the biblical story of the Concubine at Gibeah.
The swastikas were painted on the unfinished shell of a summer palace initiated by Jordan’s King Hussein prior to 1967.
Local authorities noted the site has previously been targeted by political vandalism, including a painted mural of militant Leila Khaled. Law enforcement agencies have launched an investigation into the hate crime at the heritage location.
