Israeli President calls to protect Christian communities and Holy Land sites

President of Israel Isaac Herzog. Photo: GPO Haim Tzach

On January 12, 2026, Israel's President Isaac Herzog met with Jerusalem Patriarch Theophilos III, as well as with other Patriarchs and heads of Churches of Jerusalem and the Holy Land. During the meeting, the head of state declared the need to protect Christian communities and holy sites, reports The Jerusalem Post.

During the annual Christmas-New Year reception for representatives of Christian denominations, Herzog expressed concern concern over the exodus from Israel by young Christian families. He emphasized that this trend is alarming and requires special attention from the state. "This is their home as it is my home as it is our home," the President stated, noting that Christians should feel welcome and secure.

Herzog also confirmed Israel's commitment to freedom of religion and protection of religious shrines. According to him, the state intends to continue ensuring the protection of places significant to all denominations and to resist any forms of pressure or persecution of believers.

For his part, Jerusalem Patriarch Theophilos III pointed to serious threats facing the region's communities. "The rise and increasing hostility of radical groups in the West Bank and in Jerusalem are a real challenge, and effective ways must be found to ensure the well-being of communities that must live side by side in respect and safety," he stated.

The Patriarch also noted the problem of internal instability. "We must not give up until we tackle an equally serious threat to all of us, which is the crime and violence that communities are experiencing in the northern communities of Israel," added Patriarch Theophilos III, assuring that the heads of Churches remain unwavering in their spiritual mission to be messengers of peace and reconciliation.

Earlier, the UOJ wrote that Israeli authorities did not allow Palestine's vice-president to go to Bethlehem for Christmas.

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