Threat to Palestinian Christians: Pastor calls out Christian nations' hypocrisy

Amidst the escalating conflict between Israel and Gaza, Reverend Munther Isaac, a prominent Palestinian pastor from the Evangelical Lutheran Christmas Church in Bethlehem, has criticised Israeli actions, accusing the nation of perpetuating a brutal war that threatens the existence of Palestinian Christians in both Gaza and the occupied West Bank.

In a recent appearance on the Arab News’ weekly show ‘Frankly Speaking,’ Rev. Isaac labelled Israel’s actions as genocide and challenged the narrative of self-defence propagated by Israeli authorities.

He questioned the disproportionate impact of Israel's retaliatory assault on Gaza, which has claimed the lives of thousands of civilians, including children, and displaced millions from their homes.

The Rev Isaac highlighted the dire situation facing Palestinian Christians, particularly those residing in Gaza, where the already marginalized community has been disproportionately affected by the conflict. He pointed to the destruction of homes and churches, including the bombing of Gaza's Greek Orthodox Saint Porphyrius Church, which resulted in the deaths of at least 18 Palestinian civilians seeking shelter.

Contrary to Israel's claims of safeguarding Christian interests, Rev. Isaac argued that the bombing campaigns in Gaza have laid bare the fallacy of such assertions, with churches becoming targets and Christians facing heightened insecurity. He emphasized the need for an end to the conflict and occupation, advocating for equal rights and recognition for Palestinian Christians in the region.

In addition to condemning Israel's actions, Rev. Isaac commended South Africa for its initiative in bringing legal proceedings against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), accusing the nation of genocide in Gaza.

While the ICJ ruled in favour of South Africa on several accounts, including ordering Israel to prevent genocide and provide humanitarian services, scepticism remains regarding the enforceability of the ruling.

Rev. Isaac lamented the response of Western countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, and Germany, for opposing the ICJ judgment and failing to hold Israel accountable for its actions. He expressed disappointment with the lack of support from Christian-majority nations, criticizing their hypocrisy in expressing concern for the Christian presence in the Middle East while endorsing policies that endanger it.

Moreover, Rev. Isaac called on church leaders to break their silence on the conflict and speak out against injustice, emphasizing the moral imperative for religious leaders to advocate for peace, justice, and equality. He urged faith communities to challenge the narrative perpetuated by Israel, which often uses religious justifications to legitimize its actions.

Addressing the right of Jews to live in peace, particularly in Jerusalem, Rev. Isaac affirmed their entitlement to safety and freedom but stressed the importance of upholding Palestinian rights and rejecting the narrative of exclusivity.

He emphasized the need for coexistence and mutual respect between Palestinians and Israelis, envisioning a future where both communities can live as equals in the region.