Jerusalem church leaders visit Taybeh: Christians’ presence in the Holy Land is at risk

Church leaders in Jerusalem say they hold Israeli authorities responsible for “facilitating and enabling” settler attacks, warning that police silence in the face of emergency calls constitutes a form of complicity.

On Monday, the heads of churches visited the predominantly Christian town of Taybeh, east of Ramallah. The delegation was led by Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa and Greek Orthodox Patriarch Theophilos III, joined by diplomats representing more than 20 countries. U.S. representatives canceled their participation at the last minute without explanation.

The visit carried a serious warning about the escalating threat to one of the oldest Christian communities in the Holy Land. Both church leaders and diplomats called for accountability for Israeli settlers and an end to the threats targeting a deeply rooted Christian community in the region.

Continued below.