For Christians in Israel and Jerusalem, intolerance is becoming normal
Summary
Christians living in Israel and East Jerusalem have experienced growing attacks and harassment recently. These incidents include physical violence, insults, and damage to church property, causing many young Christians to consider leaving the area.Key Facts
- Around 180,000 Christians live in Israel, with about 10,000 living in East Jerusalem.
- Attacks on Christians, such as physical assault and property damage, have increased over the past three years.
- In the first three months of this year, Christians reported 31 harassment incidents including spitting and defacing church property.
- Last year saw 113 known attacks on Christians and church properties, including 61 physical assaults targeting clergy.
- Many attacks are linked to ultra-Orthodox and ultra-nationalist Israelis, especially settlers.
- Israeli officials condemned attacks and have arrested suspects, but many incidents go unreported.
- Christians in the region have lived there for over 2,000 years.
- Rising far-right nationalism under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government is seen as a factor in increased harassment.
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