Palestinian Minister calls for protection of Christians in Gaza and West Bank

Palestinian Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, Farsin Ağabekian Şahin, has called for international action to protect the Christian presence in Palestine. During a meeting with a delegation from Churches for Peace in the Middle East (CMEP) led by Director Mae Elise Cannon, Şahin highlighted the growing threats facing Christian communities due to Israeli actions.

Şahin addressed the deteriorating humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, noting the lack of sufficient aid, the continued closure of border crossings, the spread of disease, and disruptions to children's education. In the West Bank, the Minister noted escalating violence occurring under the protection of the Israeli military.

The Minister emphasized that the Christian population in Palestine is experiencing a significant decline due to these harsh living conditions and challenges. He urged the international community and global churches to increase efforts to safeguard holy sites and the Christian community from violations. The CMEP delegation expressed solidarity with the Palestinian people and voiced concerns regarding the declining number of Christians in the Holy Land.