Christians shrink in Jerusalem, Archbishop tells Tucker Carlson
Note: AI technology was used to generate this article’s audio.
- Archbishop Hosam Naoum warns of declining Christian communities in Jerusalem under 'Israel' occupation.
- Restrictions on movement, limited access to holy sites, and external funding gaps worsen the situation.
Christians in Jerusalem and the Holy Land are facing unprecedented challenges under 'Israel' occupation, according to Archbishop Hosam Naoum, head of the Anglican Church in Jerusalem and the Middle East, in an interview with Tucker Carlson.
Declining Numbers and Historical Presence
"Christians in the Holy Land have been here for 2,000 years," Naoum said. "Historically, our community has thrived in phases, but now we are on the declining end."
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He noted that Christian populations in key cities like Nazareth and Bethlehem have decreased dramatically over recent decades. "Bethlehem went from around 100,000 Christians to less than 30,000 today," he explained.
Challenges Under Occupation
Naoum highlighted restrictions on movement, limited access to holy sites, and the rise of religious extremism as major pressures. He criticized some American Christian organizations for directing more funds to Jewish settlements in the West Bank than to local Christian communities.
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"Our holy sites anchor us in the Holy Land, but maintenance is not growth," he said. "Support often bypasses those who actually live here."
Impact on Holy Celebrations
Archbishop Naoum also discussed the impact of occupation on religious ceremonies. Easter celebrations and Holy Fire events often face limitations on the number of pilgrims allowed into key sites. "Jerusalem is our spiritual capital, yet each year the faithful face new restrictions," he said.
Funding and Custodianship Concerns
While acknowledging some international support, Naoum stressed it is insufficient compared to what is sent to settlements in 'Israel'. He warned that exclusive custodianship by 'Israel' authorities could marginalize Christian presence in Jerusalem.
"Maintaining Christians in the Holy Land is a struggle, yet essential for faith and historical continuity," he concluded.
