Netanyahu Says Initiative Will Address Rising Attacks On Christians As Nigeria Faces Persistent Insecurity
The Israeli government has announced the opening of what it described as a “new front” aimed at protecting Christian communities across the Middle East and Africa, with Nigeria specifically mentioned as one of the countries of concern.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made the disclosure while addressing Evangelical Christian leaders, stressing that Israel is expanding its global engagement beyond conventional military fronts to include the protection of persecuted Christian populations worldwide.
According to Netanyahu, the initiative forms part of a broader ideological and security struggle to defend what he called “Judeo-Christian civilization”, particularly in regions facing persistent religious violence and extremist attacks.
Nigeria Listed Among Focus Countries
During his remarks, the Israeli Prime Minister listed Nigeria, alongside countries such as Syria, Lebanon, and Turkey, as areas where Christian communities are under increasing threat from militant groups.
Nigeria has for years battled insurgency and terrorism, particularly from Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), with numerous reports of attacks on religious institutions and communities, including churches and clergy.
Netanyahu said Israel is aware of the security challenges facing Christians in Nigeria and intends to work with international partners and allied nations to support efforts aimed at protecting vulnerable communities.
Global Coalition Against Religious Persecution
The Israeli leader described the initiative as part of a growing coalition of nations committed to defending Christian minorities, stating that the effort goes beyond military engagement to include diplomacy, advocacy, and global awareness.
He emphasized that Israel sees itself as having both a moral responsibility and strategic interest in standing with Christian communities facing persecution, especially in regions affected by extremist violence.
Implications For Nigeria
The announcement comes amid renewed concerns over insecurity in Nigeria, particularly in the North-East, North-Central, and parts of the North-West, where religious and communal tensions have persisted.
While the Nigerian government has consistently maintained that the country’s security challenges are not religiously motivated, international attention has increasingly focused on the impact of violence on Christian communities.
Observers say Israel’s statement may heighten international scrutiny on Nigeria’s security situation and could influence future diplomatic and security collaborations.
Nigeria is home to one of Africa’s largest Christian populations and has witnessed repeated attacks on churches, priests, and worshippers over the years, prompting calls for stronger global intervention and protection measures.
As of the time of reporting, no official response has been issued by the Nigerian government regarding Israel’s announcement.
