* Benjamin Netanyahu,
Israeli Prime Minister
The Pathfinder
Friday December 26, 2025
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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has strongly criticised attacks and forced displacement affecting Christian communities in Nigeria, calling for an immediate halt to religious persecution worldwide.
Netanyahu made the remarks in a Christmas message addressed to Christians across the globe, delivered from Jerusalem, where he reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to the protection of religious freedom and vulnerable faith communities.
“The persecution of Christians, or of any religious group, cannot be accepted,” Netanyahu said. “The violent attacks and displacement of Christians by militant groups in Nigeria must come to an end, and they must end now.”
The Israeli leader extended Christmas and New Year greetings to Christians globally, describing Israel as a country where Christian communities are free to practise their faith without fear or restriction.
“From Jerusalem, I send my warm wishes to our Christian friends around the world. I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year,” he said.
Netanyahu noted that Israel remains the only country in the Middle East where the Christian population is growing, adding that Christians in Israel enjoy full civil rights, religious liberty and open access to holy sites.
He contrasted this with what he described as a steady decline in Christian populations across several countries in the region, which he attributed to long-standing discrimination and persecution.
According to him, countries such as Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Turkey and areas under the Palestinian Authority have witnessed a sharp reduction in their Christian populations over the years.
He cited Bethlehem, revered by Christians as the birthplace of Jesus Christ, noting that its Christian population has significantly decreased over time.
“Bethlehem once had a Christian majority of about 80 per cent. Today, that figure has dropped to around 20 per cent,” he said.
Netanyahu also highlighted Israel’s support for Christian traditions, pointing out that authorities in Jerusalem officially distribute Christmas trees each year, a practice he said has continued for more than two decades.
In contrast, he referenced reports of a Christmas tree being set ablaze at a church in the Palestinian town of Jenin in recent days.
Reiterating Israel’s position, the Prime Minister assured Christians facing persecution around the world of the country’s continued solidarity.
“Israel will always stand with Christians everywhere. You are not alone,” he said.
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