Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday acknowledged the steadfast support of Christians around the world in Israel’s fight against the “forces of evil.”
Christians in Israel and the Palestinian territories were preparing for a gloomy wartime Christmas for the second year in a row, with the season overshadowed by the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip.
In a video message to Christians around the world, Prime Minister Netanyahu said: “You stood stoutly, consistently and forcefully by our side as Israel defended our civilization from barbarism.”
“We seek peace with all those who desire peace, but we will do whatever it takes to protect the one Jewish state, the repository, and the source of our common heritage.
“Israel is leading the world in the fight against the forces of evil and oppression, but our fight is far from over. With your support and God’s help, I assure you, we will prevail,” Netanyahu said. ” he said.
The Gaza war, which broke out on October 7, 2023 following a deadly attack on Israel by Hamas, has had a major impact on Christian communities in Israel and the Palestinian territories.
The ensuing Israeli military operation in Gaza has left at least 45,317 people dead, most of them civilians, according to the Hamas-run region’s health ministry. This figure is considered reliable by the United Nations.
Israel is home to about 185,000 Christians, or about 1.9% of the population, with Arab Christians making up almost 76% of the community, according to data from the country’s Central Bureau of Statistics.
According to Palestinian officials, about 47,000 Christians live in the Palestinian territories, including the Gaza Strip.
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