“This Must End Now” — Netanyahu Speaks Out on Killings of Christians in Nigeria

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has spoken out against what he described as ongoing attacks on Christian communities in Nigeria, warning that persecution of people based on their faith must not be tolerated anywhere in the world.

His comments come amid an intense global debate over claims that Christians in Nigeria are facing systematic violence, particularly in parts of the Middle Belt. Some lawmakers in the United States, backed by former President Donald Trump, have alleged that Nigerian Christians are being targeted solely for their religious beliefs.

Despite repeated denials and pushback from Nigerian government officials, the Trump administration previously designated Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC), citing alleged religious persecution. At the time, Trump also threatened possible military action to halt what was described as mass killings of Christians.

A U.S. congressional delegation recently visited Nigeria to investigate reports of violence against Christian communities, with a focus on the Middle Belt region. However, no official decision or policy direction has yet been announced following the visit.

Israel broke its silence on the issue on Wednesday when Netanyahu addressed the matter during his Christmas message to Christians worldwide. He emphasized Israel’s commitment to religious freedom and condemned attacks on believers of any faith.

“From Jerusalem, I send warm greetings to our Christian friends around the world. I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year,” Netanyahu said. “From here, the Holy Land, Israel is the only country in the Middle East where the Christian community is thriving.”

He added that Israel remains a place where Christians can freely practise their faith without fear, enjoy full rights, and openly celebrate their traditions.

“The persecution of Christians or members of any religion cannot and must not be tolerated,” Netanyahu stated. “And Muslim militant displacement and attacks against Christians in Nigeria — that too must end. And it must end now.”

Netanyahu’s remarks have further amplified international attention on Nigeria’s security challenges and the ongoing controversy surrounding claims of religiously motivated violence in the country.