Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wished Christians around the world a Merry Christmas and thanked the Christian community for their support during the ongoing conflict between the Jewish state and terrorist organizations.
Prime Minister Netanyahu published a video message on his account on social media platform X on Christmas Eve.
“Dear Christian friends, as we gather with family and friends this Christmas, we wish Israel and the Christian community around the world a Merry Christmas from the Holy Land,” he said.
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This follows Hamas's surprise attack on October 7, 2023, which led to military retaliation from Israel, and the Israeli military's involvement in ongoing conflicts with terrorist organizations such as Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon. It happened while I was there.
“As Israel fights on seven fronts, we are deeply grateful for the steadfast support of our Christian friends around the world. You stand by our side as Israel defends our nation. “Civilization stands against barbarism,” Netanyahu said.
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“The people of Israel are united in defending our country from those who seek to destroy it,” he continued. “We seek peace with all 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.”
More than 180,000 Christians live in Israel, accounting for about 1.8% of the country's population of more than 9.9 million, according to Israel's Central Bureau of Statistics.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wished Christians around the world a Merry Christmas. (Kent Nishimura/Getty Images)
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Last year, the Christian population increased by 0.6%.
“Israel leads the world in the fight against the forces of evil and oppression, but our fight is far from over,” the prime minister said. “I assure you that with your support and God's help, we will be victorious. From Jerusalem, the City of Peace, I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.”
