By Palang Paul
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued a strong global call against the persecution of Christians, declaring that attacks on Christians and other religious groups—particularly in Nigeria—must stop immediately.
Speaking in a Christmas message delivered from Jerusalem and shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Netanyahu stressed that religious persecution in any form is unacceptable and cannot be tolerated in today’s world.
“From Jerusalem, I send warm greetings to our Christian friends around the world,” Netanyahu said. “I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from the Holy Land—Israel, the only country in the Middle East where the Christian community is thriving.”
He described Israel as a place where Christians enjoy full religious freedom, security, and equal rights, noting that Christian pilgrims are welcomed openly and can practise their faith without fear.
“Israel is the only country in the Middle East where Christians can worship freely, celebrate their traditions proudly, and live without intimidation,” he said.
“Here, Christian pilgrims are embraced and deeply appreciated.”
Netanyahu contrasted Israel’s approach with what he described as rising hostility toward Christians in other parts of the region. He pointed to a recent incident in Jenin, where a Christmas tree was reportedly burned inside the Holy Redeemer Church, describing it as a troubling symbol of religious intolerance.
“In Jerusalem, the municipality officially distributes Christmas trees every year—and has done so for more than two decades,” he said. “That is the difference. Israel stands up for Christians across the region wherever they face threats, intimidation, or persecution.”
The Israeli leader also raised alarm over the sharp decline of Christian populations in several Middle Eastern countries, blaming systematic discrimination and oppression.
“While Israel’s Christian population is growing, Christian communities in many neighbouring regions are disappearing,” Netanyahu said.
“This has happened in Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Turkey, and under the Palestinian Authority.”
Referring to Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus, he noted that its Christian population has dramatically fallen over the years.
“Bethlehem once had an 80 percent Christian population,” he said. “After it was handed over to the Palestinian Authority, that number dropped to about 20 percent.”
Netanyahu concluded his message by reaffirming Israel’s support for Christians worldwide and renewing his call for an end to religious violence, including militant attacks and displacement in Nigeria.
“I send Israel’s Christmas blessings to our Christian friends across the world,” he said. “Know this: Israel will always stand with you.”
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