Christian Advocates Urge Trump to Protect West Bank Christians
Christian leaders have called on President Donald Trump to urge Israel to safeguard Palestinian Christian communities facing settler violence. Attacks and restrictions are reportedly forcing these communities out of the West Bank, threatening a historic Christian presence in the region. This was conveyed by advocates to Newsweek.
Trump’s Support for Netanyahu
Trump recently endorsed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for reelection. This follows a reported attack on an American journalist in the West Bank. U.S. Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, labeled it a terrorist act and demanded the perpetrators be prosecuted. The U.S. Embassy collaborated with Israeli forces to address the incident. Israeli police are investigating what Netanyahu referred to as a ‘confrontation.’
Violence Condemned
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar condemned severe violence allegedly by Israeli rioters in Taybeh, a Christian village. Settlers reportedly attacked European diplomats and a French mayor there. Sa’ar criticized the lack of coordination with Israeli forces, suggesting it might have enhanced security.
Ten arrests followed the weekend’s violence, though suspects were not named. Advocate Alexandrya Pouliot, part of the attacked delegation, highlighted the escalating threat faced by Christians in the region. This violence undermines a historic Christian community.
Existential Threat to Christians
Reverend Mae Elise Cannon, a Protestant pastor, emphasized that many Christian families in Bethlehem are considering emigration due to limited prospects for a safe life. Advocates urge the Trump administration to pressure Israel to curb settler violence.
A White House official stated the aim is to maintain a stable West Bank for Israeli security and peace. Newsweek reached out to the IDF and Israeli police for comments.
Official Stance on Religious Freedom
Israeli leaders claim they support and protect Christian communities, with President Isaac Herzog emphasizing this commitment. Trump’s policies often align with Christian support for Israel, linking his administration’s actions to evangelical goals.
Huckabee, citing religious roots, has consistently condemned settler attacks. He described a recent attack on journalist Heidi Levine as ‘dishonorable’ and called for thorough investigation and prosecution.
Christian Exodus
Cannon noted the Christian exodus from areas where Christianity originated. Christians have resources to emigrate more easily compared to their Muslim neighbors. Approximately 50,000 Christians live in the West Bank and Jerusalem, making up a small minority.
Reports suggest significant emigration from Bethlehem, with hundreds of families leaving since recent conflicts. Remaining Christians face threats to their livelihood, exemplified by Taybeh’s inability to harvest olives due to military restrictions.
Bishop James Curry and activist Ihab Hassan have voiced concerns about Israel’s military designations impacting Christian livelihoods and increasing isolation from sacred sites.
Political Context
The U.S. Senate recently voted against a resolution requiring the State Department to report on violence in the West Bank. Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen criticized the lack of accountability for American deaths.
Trump dismantled Biden-era sanctions in the West Bank, focusing instead on the economic impact of violence. Both U.S. and Israeli leaders have condemned settler violence. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio called for Israel to deter such acts, emphasizing the need for stability.
Following recent violence in Taybeh, U.S. diplomats promised serious action to safeguard the community. Netanyahu condemned the criminal acts in nearby villages, calling the rioters extremists undermining Israel’s global standing.