Benjamin Netanyahu Calls for End to Bigotry in Christmas Message

Image by getty images
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wished Christians in Israel and throughout the world a Merry Christmas.
In a videotaped message, Netanyahu noted that Christians throughout the Middle East are subject to persecution, except in Israel.
“Christian communities across the Middle East are experiencing a particularly difficult time. They’re experiencing violence, persecution and fear,” Netanyahu said.
“Here in Israel religious freedom is a sacred principle. Israel’s Christian citizens enjoy the full blessing of freedom and democracy.
Their equal rights are enshrined in Israeli law,” he added.
Netanyahu called on Christians to focus on what unites them with the Jewish state. “Let us remember the common heritage and values that unite us in the face of extremism and hatred, which we will never accept,” he said.
Hello, fellow Forward reader! I’m Joel Brown, a Forward reader and supporter for more than 15 years, and currently the chair of the board of directors.
I’m an avid Forward reader because it ticks so many of my essential boxes: excellent journalism, Jewish focus and diverse viewpoints. In today’s political climate, what I most appreciate is the Forward’s independence — made possible by the generosity of its membership.
The Forward is committed to bringing you unbiased, nuanced Jewish news. From my position as board chair, I see an exciting future as we expand our position as the definitive independent voice of contemporary American Judaism.
— Joel Brown, Forward board chair
