Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wished Christians around the world a Merry Christmas and thanked the Christian community for its support amid the ongoing conflict between the Jewish state and terrorist groups.
Netanyahu published a video message on Christmas Eve on his account on the social media platform X.
“My dear Christian friends, as you gather with your family and friends this Christmas, I wish the Christian community in Israel and around the world a Merry Christmas from the Holy Land,” he said.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaks as he meets with Donald Trump at his Mar-a-Lago estate, Friday, July 26, 2024, in Palm Beach, Florida. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
This comes as Israeli forces have been involved in ongoing clashes against terrorist groups including Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon following the surprise attack on Oct. 7. 2023 by Hamas, which led to military retaliation from Israel.
“At a time when Israel is fighting on seven fronts, we greatly appreciate the steadfast support of our Christian friends around the world. You stood by our side, you stood by us steadfastly, steadfastly steadfastly, vigorously as Israel defends us. progress against barbarism,” Netanyahu said.
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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaks during a press conference in Jerusalem on September 2, 2024. (OHAD ZWIGENBERG/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
“The people of Israel are united to defend our nation against those who are determined to destroy us,” he continued. “We seek peace with all who desire peace with us, but we will do whatever is necessary to protect the only Jewish state, the repository and source of our common heritage.”
There are more than 180,000 Christians living in Israel, making up 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 wishes Christians around the world a Merry Christmas. (Kent Nishimura/Getty Images)
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The Christian population grew by 0.6% last year.
“Israel is leading the world in fighting the forces of evil and tyranny, but our fight is not over,” the prime minister said. “With your support, and with God's help, I assure you, we will win. From Jerusalem, the city of peace, I wish you a merry Christmas and a happy new year.”