Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has warned against what he described as ongoing attacks and persecution of Christian faithful in Nigeria, calling for an immediate end to such violence.
Netanyahu made the remarks in his Christmas message on Wednesday amid growing international debate over claims of genocide against Christians in Nigeria, particularly in parts of the Middle Belt.
According to reports, some United States lawmakers, backed by President Donald Trump, have alleged that Christians in Nigeria are being persecuted for their faith. Despite repeated denials by Nigerian government officials, the US reportedly designated Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) over religious freedom violations, with threats of possible sanctions.
A US congressional delegation recently visited Nigeria to investigate the killings of Christians, especially in affected regions, although President Trump is yet to announce any official decision following the visit.
Speaking from Jerusalem, Netanyahu said Israel stood firmly against religious persecution anywhere in the world.
“From Jerusalem, I send warm greetings to our Christian friends around the world. I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year,” he said.
The Israeli leader noted that Israel remains the only country in the Middle East where Christians freely practise their faith with full rights and without fear, adding that Christian pilgrims are welcomed and protected.
Netanyahu stressed that attacks on Christians or adherents of any religion must not be tolerated.
“The persecution of Christians or members of any religion cannot and must not be tolerated. And Muslim militant displacement and attacks against Christians in Nigeria, that too must end. And it must end now,” he said.
His comments add to the growing international attention on Nigeria’s security challenges and the broader debate over religious freedom and violence in the country.
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