Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has raised alarm over what he described as the ongoing persecution of Christians in Nigeria, calling for an immediate halt to violence and displacement affecting Christian communities. In a Christmas video message released on Wednesday, Netanyahu said attacks motivated by religion were unacceptable anywhere in the world and should not be tolerated under any circumstances. He pointed directly to Nigeria, saying militant assaults against Christians must stop without delay. “The persecution of Christians or members of any religion cannot and must not be tolerated. And the displacement and attacks against Christians in Nigeria, that too must end. And it must end now.” Netanyahu used the address to portray Israel as a safe haven for Christians, describing it as the only country in the Middle East where Christians are able to practise their faith freely and celebrate religious traditions without fear. He contrasted Israel’s position with what he described as widespread intimidation and persecution of Christians in other parts of the region. “Israel is the only country in the Middle East where Christians can practise their faith with full rights and in total freedom, where Christian pilgrims are embraced with open arms and are so deeply appreciated, where Christians can celebrate their traditions proudly and openly do so without any fear.” According to Netanyahu, Israel’s Christian population continues to grow, while Christian communities in several Middle Eastern countries have steadily declined due to discrimination and oppression. He cited Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Turkey and areas under the Palestinian Authority as examples, with particular emphasis on Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus. “The birthplace of Jesus, Bethlehem, used to have an 80 per cent Christian population. That’s when we were there. When we left and gave it to the Palestinian Authority, it has since dwindled from 80 per cent to 20 per cent.” He also compared how Christian symbols are treated, noting that Jerusalem’s municipal authorities officially distribute Christmas trees every year, while a Christmas tree was recently set on fire in Jenin. “In Jerusalem, the city municipality every year officially distributes Christmas trees every year. It’s been doing so for two decades. By contrast, a few days ago, in the Palestinian town of Jenin, Palestinians burnt a Christmas tree in the Holy Redeemer Church.” “That’s the difference. Israel stands up for Christians across the region, wherever they face widespread intimidation and persecution.” Netanyahu concluded the message by extending Christmas greetings to Christians around the world. His comments come weeks after United States President Donald Trump accused the Nigerian government of failing to stop the killing of Christians. In a post on his Truth Social account, Trump warned that the US could suspend all aid to Nigeria and even consider military action if the attacks continued.
