Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wished Christians worldwide Merry Christmas and thanked the Christian community for its support amid the Jewish state’s ongoing conflicts with terrorist groups.
Netanyahu posted a video message on his account on the social media platform X on Christmas Eve.
“My dear Christian friends, as you gather with your family and friends this Christmas, I wish the Christian community in Israel and around the world blessings for a Merry Christmas in the Holy Land,” he said.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaks during a meeting with Donald Trump at his Mar-a-Lago estate Friday, July 26, 2024, in Palm Beach, Florida. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
This comes as Israel Defense Forces have been involved in ongoing conflicts against terrorist groups such as Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon following the surprise attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023, which led to military retaliation by Israel.
“At a time when Israel is fighting on seven fronts, we deeply appreciate the unwavering support of our Christian friends around the world. You have stood with us, you have stood with us persistently, consistently and forcefully as Israel defends ours.” “Civilization against barbarism,” Netanyahu said.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaks during a news conference on September 2, 2024 in Jerusalem. (OHAD ZWIGENBERG/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
“The people of Israel are united in defending our nation against those who seek our destruction,” he continued. “We seek peace with all who desire peace with us, but we will do whatever is necessary to defend the only Jewish state, the repository and source of our shared heritage.”
According to the Israel Central Bureau of Statistics, more than 180,000 Christians live in Israel, accounting for about 1.8% of the country’s population of more than 9.9 million people.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wished Christians worldwide a Merry Christmas. (Kent Nishimura/Getty Images)
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The Christian population grew by 0.6% last year.
“Israel is a world leader in the fight against the forces of evil and tyranny, but our fight is not over,” the prime minister said. “With your support and with God’s help, I assure you, we will win. From Jerusalem, the city of peace, I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.”
