Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has again condemned what he described as the persecution of Christians in Nigeria and other parts of the world.
In an Easter message shared on his X account on Sunday, Netanyahu extended greetings to Christians in Israel, the United States, and across the globe, wishing them a joyful celebration.
He stated that Christians face persecution in several countries, including Nigeria, Syria, Lebanon, and Turkey, but maintained that Israel remains the only country in the Middle East where the Christian community is protected and continues to grow.
The Israeli leader also referenced ongoing tensions in the region, noting that despite security threats and missile attacks on Jerusalem, Israel remains committed to protecting freedom of worship for all religions, particularly during the Easter period.
According to him, the country remains resolute in its efforts to defend lives, safeguard liberty, and ensure that people of all faiths can practise their religion without fear.
Netanyahu further expressed hope that the Easter season would bring renewal, faith, and hope to Christians worldwide.
He wrote, “To our Christian friends in Israel, the United States, and around the world, we wish you a blessed and joyful Easter.
“Christians are persecuted across the Middle East, in Syria, Lebanon, Nigeria, Turkey, and beyond. But in our region, Israel alone protects our Christian community, which is growing and prospering.
“In this land where the story began, as missiles are fired at our capital, the holy city of Jerusalem, and as the US and Israel stand firm against the Iranian regime and its terror proxies, we continue to steadfastly protect the freedom of worship for all faiths, especially at this sacred time.
“Even under fire, our commitment is unwavering: to defend life, to safeguard liberty, and to ensure that every believer can pray in peace.
“May the message of renewal, hope, and faith shine brightly in your homes and hearts. Happy Easter.”
The latest remarks come months after the Israeli leader raised similar concerns, condemning what he described as the killing and displacement of Christians in Nigeria.
In his earlier Christmas message, he stressed that attacks on Christians or adherents of any religion are unacceptable and called for an end to violence against Christian communities.
He also reiterated that Israel provides a safe environment for Christians to practise their faith freely, unlike some parts of the Middle East.
Netanyahu contrasted Israel’s position with developments in countries such as Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, and Turkey, where he said Christian populations have declined over time due to discrimination.