The Christian community in the Holy Land is facing increasingly difficult times. According to the 2025 annual report of the Rossing Center, the number of incidents targeting Christians in Israel and East Jerusalem reached 155, up from 111 the previous year. This nearly 40% increase reflects a troubling deterioration of tolerance in the region.
The report details the nature of these acts: 61 physical assaults, 52 attacks on religious property, 28 cases of verbal harassment or threats, and 14 acts of vandalism against Christian symbols. Among the most common incidents are spitting on priests and religious in the streets of Jerusalem, as well as vandalism of holy sites and Christian cemeteries.
This wave of violence occurs amid heightened tensions since the Gaza conflict and the rise of religious and identity-based extremism. Christians, already a minority, feel increasingly vulnerable.
Cardinal Pizzaballa's Statements: A Growing "Culture of Contempt"
In an interview with the Italian daily Corriere della Sera on May 7, 2026, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, expressed deep concern. He noted that extremism is gaining ground and that "the culture of contempt for anything that is not theirs, not only for what is Arab but for everything that is not Jewish, is unfortunately growing."
The cardinal also pointed to the role of the media and the current political climate in amplifying this phenomenon. He described it as "a sick germ within a society, amplified by the media, and something we must work to contain before it becomes truly alarming."
These words remind us of the importance of vigilance and prayer for peace, as Scripture invites us: "Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord" (Hebrews 12:14, ESV).
Historical and Political Roots of the Tension
To understand this surge in violence, we must place events in context. The war in Gaza, which began in October 2023, has reignited tensions between communities. Christians, often perceived as "traitors" by some extremists due to their ties with the West, become easy targets.
Furthermore, the rise of religious nationalist movements in Israel has contributed to an increasingly hostile atmosphere toward minorities. Radical groups, such as Jewish supremacists, openly call for hatred against non-Jews, including Christians.
In response, local churches call for prayer and action. "Let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up" (Galatians 6:9, ESV).
The Response of Churches and Christians Worldwide
Churches in the Holy Land are not passive. Interfaith dialogue initiatives are underway, particularly through the World Council of Churches and the Vatican. Pope Leo XIV, elected in May 2025, has made peace in the Holy Land a priority of his pontificate.
Many Christians around the world are also mobilizing through prayer and financial support. Organizations like the Œuvre d'Orient and Aid to the Church in Need provide concrete assistance to persecuted communities.
The Bible reminds us: "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 5:10, ESV). This promise is a source of hope for suffering Christians.
A Call to Solidarity and Vigilance
In conclusion, the situation of Christians in the Holy Land is critical. Cardinal Pizzaballa calls us not to remain indifferent. As a global community, we are called to pray for peace, support our persecuted brothers and sisters, and work for a world where respect and dignity for every person are recognized. May the Lord grant us the courage to be instruments of his peace.
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