Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has strongly condemned reported attacks against Christian communities in Nigeria, describing the alleged violence and displacement of civilians as deeply troubling and unacceptable.
In a statement released on Thursday, (Christmas day) Netanyahu expressed concern over reports that militant groups have targeted Christian populations in parts of the country, forcing families to flee their homes and leaving communities in fear. He called for an immediate end to what he described as coordinated assaults on religious communities, emphasizing that freedom of worship and the protection of civilians must be upheld everywhere.
“The targeting of people because of their faith is intolerable,” Netanyahu said, adding that the international community should not remain silent in the face of such reports. He urged Nigerian authorities and global partners to take decisive action to restore security, protect vulnerable populations, and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable.
Nigeria has faced persistent security challenges for years, including attacks by extremist groups and ongoing communal violence in several regions. While the government has repeatedly pledged to improve security and promote peaceful coexistence among its diverse religious and ethnic groups, rights organizations continue to raise concerns about the humanitarian impact of the conflict, particularly on rural communities.
Netanyahu’s comments add to growing international attention on the situation in Nigeria and renewed calls for stronger measures to protect civilians, promote dialogue, and address the root causes of violence across the country.