Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu Labels Killings of Christians in Nigeria “Genocide,” Calls for Immediate End to Violence

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has drawn renewed international attention to Nigeria’s security crisis, describing the continued killings and displacement of Christians as a genocide and urging that the violence end without delay.

 

Netanyahu made the remarks in a Christmas message released on Wednesday, where he condemned attacks on Christians and other religious groups, stressing that religious persecution should not be tolerated anywhere in the world. Ejes Gist News reports that his comments specifically referenced Nigeria, where several Christian communities have faced repeated attacks and forced displacement.

Netanyahu Condemns Attacks on Christians in Nigeria

In his address, the Israeli leader warned that persistent violence against religious minorities threatens the survival of vulnerable communities. He described the situation in Nigeria as urgent and unacceptable.

 

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“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 said.

His statement comes amid growing global concern over insecurity in parts of Nigeria, particularly in regions affected by insurgency, banditry, and communal violence.

 

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Call for Global Rejection of Religious Persecution

Netanyahu framed the issue as part of a broader global challenge, arguing that attacks based on faith undermine fundamental human rights. He stressed that violence targeting religious groups should be universally condemned, regardless of geography.

According to him, the international community must take a firmer stance against what he described as militant assaults on Christians, especially in countries where state protection is perceived as weak.

Israel Presented as Safe Haven for Christians

During the message, Netanyahu positioned Israel as a place of safety for Christians in the Middle East. He claimed Israel remains the only country in the region where Christians are able to practise their faith freely, celebrate religious festivals openly, and live without fear of persecution.

“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,” he said.

Claims of Declining Christian Populations in the Middle East

The Israeli prime minister also pointed to what he described as a steady decline in Christian populations across several Middle Eastern countries. He attributed the trend to discrimination, intimidation, and oppression.

Countries mentioned included:

• Iraq
• Syria
• Lebanon
• Turkey
• Territories under the Palestinian Authority

Netanyahu argued that these conditions have contributed to the shrinking presence of long-established Christian communities.

Bethlehem Demographic Change Allegation

Netanyahu referenced Bethlehem, widely recognised as the birthplace of Jesus, claiming the city has experienced a significant demographic shift since coming under Palestinian Authority control.

“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 said.

The claim has previously been a subject of debate among historians and demographers, with multiple factors cited for changes in Bethlehem’s population over time.

Comparison of Treatment of Christian Symbols

The Israeli leader also contrasted what he described as differing attitudes toward Christian symbols. He noted that Jerusalem’s municipal authorities distribute Christmas trees annually, a practice he said has continued for more than two decades.

By contrast, he referred to a recent incident 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,” Netanyahu said.

“That’s the difference. Israel stands up for Christians across the region, wherever they face widespread intimidation and persecution,” he added.

Message Ends With Christmas Greetings

Netanyahu concluded by sending Christmas greetings to Christians worldwide and reaffirming Israel’s stated commitment to religious freedom.

Nigeria’s Insecurity Draws International Scrutiny

His remarks come as Nigeria faces increasing international scrutiny over persistent violence, particularly against rural and faith-based communities. In recent weeks, United States President Donald Trump accused the Federal Government of failing to adequately protect Christian populations from repeated attacks.

 

Trump warned that the United States could consider suspending aid to Nigeria and explore further measures if the killings continue, highlighting the growing diplomatic pressure surrounding Nigeria’s security challenges.