Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly condemned what he described as the ongoing persecution and attacks against Christians in Nigeria, describing the situation as deeply unacceptable and calling for an immediate halt to the violence targeting Christian communities.
In his Christmas message, released on Wednesday, Netanyahu emphasized that attacks on Christians, or adherents of any religion, cannot and should not be tolerated under any circumstances.
He specifically addressed the issue of alleged militant violence and forced displacement affecting Christian populations in Nigeria, stressing the urgent need for protection and justice for the victims of such attacks.
During his address, Netanyahu also highlighted Israel’s own treatment of Christians, emphasizing that Israel is the only country in the Middle East where Christians can freely practice their faith, celebrate their religious traditions, and participate in public life without fear of persecution or intimidation.
Israel’s Position on Religious Freedom
The Israeli Prime Minister contrasted Israel’s record on religious freedom with developments in other parts of the Middle East, noting that in several countries, Christian communities continue to face systematic discrimination, intimidation, and persecution.
According to Netanyahu, Israel’s Christian population is steadily growing, while in neighbouring countries, including Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Turkey, and areas under the Palestinian Authority, Christian populations have been steadily declining due to harassment, violence, and oppressive policies.
Netanyahu specifically referenced Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus, as a significant example. He stated that when Israel administered the city, Christians comprised approximately 80% of the population. However, after the city came under Palestinian Authority control, the Christian population reportedly dwindled to just 20%.
Claims of Targeting Christian Symbols
The Prime Minister also drew attention to specific incidents involving Christian symbols in the region. He highlighted that Jerusalem authorities have officially distributed Christmas trees to the community for decades, a practice he praised as a sign of respect and inclusion for Christians.
In stark contrast, Netanyahu pointed to a recent event in Jenin, where a Christmas tree at the Holy Redeemer Church was reportedly burned, illustrating the challenges faced by Christians in other parts of the region.
Speaking in his message, Netanyahu said, “From Jerusalem, I send warm greetings to our Christian friends around the world. I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. From here, the Holy Land, Israel, the only country in the Middle East where the Christian community is thriving and growing.”
“Israel is the only country in the Middle East where Christians can practise their faith with full rights and total freedom, where Christian pilgrims are welcomed with open arms, deeply appreciated, and where Christians can openly celebrate their traditions without any fear of intimidation or violence.”
“In Jerusalem, the city municipality has officially distributed Christmas trees for more than two decades, celebrating the season in a spirit of inclusivity. By contrast, in the Palestinian town of Jenin, Palestinians recently burned a Christmas tree at the Holy Redeemer Church, highlighting the challenges Christians face in some parts of the region.”
“Israel stands firm in support of Christians across the Middle East, wherever they face harassment, intimidation, or persecution. While the Christian population in Israel continues to grow, Christians in many neighbouring areas face systematic discrimination, oppression, and declining numbers.”
“This has been evident in Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Turkey, and under the administration of the Palestinian Authority. Bethlehem, historically a city with a majority Christian population, has seen its Christian population fall from 80% to 20% since coming under the Palestinian Authority.”
“The persecution of Christians, or followers of any faith, cannot and must not be tolerated. The violence and displacement caused by Muslim militants against Christians in Nigeria is equally unacceptable, and it must end immediately. There can be no delay.”
“On this Christmas, I send Israel’s blessings to our Christian friends across the globe, and I want the world to know that Israel will always stand with Christians facing persecution, providing protection, solidarity, and unwavering support in the face of oppression.”