Story perspectives

Netanyahu Celebrates Christmas, Highlights Israel's Thriving Christians

12/26/2025

Summary

Story summary

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel delivered a Christmas Eve message from Jerusalem, stating Israel is the only Middle Eastern country where the Christian community is thriving.
He contrasted this with arson attack on a Christmas tree outside Holy Redeemer Church in Jenin and cited Bethlehem's Christian population decline to 10–20% since the mid-1990s.
He reaffirmed Israel's commitment to protecting Christian communities and extended Christmas blessings to Christians worldwide.

History

Historical Context

Since the mid-20th century, Bethlehem's Christian population has drastically declined from 85% in 1948 to around 10-20% by 1995, largely due to regional conflicts and emigration. The establishment of the Palestinian Authority in 1995 aimed to stabilize the area but struggled, exacerbating the challenges faced by Christian communities, as highlighted by recent remarks from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding their precarious situation.

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Story summary

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel delivered a Christmas Eve message from Jerusalem, stating Israel is the only Middle Eastern country where the Christian community is thriving.
He contrasted this with arson attack on a Christmas tree outside Holy Redeemer Church in Jenin and cited Bethlehem's Christian population decline to 10–20% since the mid-1990s.
He reaffirmed Israel's commitment to protecting Christian communities and extended Christmas blessings to Christians worldwide.

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