Herzog Voices Concern Over Christian Family Exodus from Israel

In a heartfelt gathering with Christian leaders from across Israel, President Isaac Herzog expressed deep concern over the growing trend of young Christian families leaving the country. Speaking at his annual Christmas and New Year’s reception for members of Israel’s diverse Christian communities, Herzog stressed that Israel must remain a welcoming home for all its citizens including its Christian population.

“This is their home as it is my home as it is our home,” Herzog told faith leaders from all denominations present at the event, reaffirming the importance of unity and mutual respect in a country defined by its diversity.

Herzog praised the values of the Abraham Accords, calling them a foundation for peace and prosperity not just between nations, but among all the children of Abraham Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike. He urged religious leaders to remain steadfast in their sacred mission to sow peace, reconciliation, and understanding throughout the region.

The president also took a moment to express solidarity with the people of Iran, noting that “the hearts of Israel go out to them,” a reflection of Israel’s broader concern for suffering across the region.

Herzog thanked Christians from around the world for their support, acknowledging their role in building a more hopeful future for the Holy Land and beyond.

Greek Orthodox Patriarch Theophilos III, who leads the Council of Churches in the Holy Land, responded with optimism about the recent ceasefire with Hamas, saying he hoped it would lead to permanent peace and healing both for the victims of October 7 and for those affected by the war in Gaza.

He also highlighted the continued humanitarian work being done by Christian communities, including care for Gazan children with cancer being treated at Augusta Victoria Hospital in Jerusalem. However, Theophilos did not shy away from addressing growing concerns in the West Bank and parts of Jerusalem, pointing to rising hostility from radical groups as a major challenge. He called for real solutions that ensure safety and dignity for all communities.

Closer to home, he warned of escalating violence and crime in Israel’s northern towns, insisting that this too must be addressed with urgency and determination.

In closing, Theophilos pledged that Christian leaders would continue working alongside the president in promoting peace, combating antisemitism and Islamophobia, and safeguarding the shared values of coexistence.

Yehuda Avidan, director-general of the Religious Affairs Ministry, joined Herzog in assuring the Christian leaders that Israel remains committed to protecting all holy sites and guaranteeing freedom of worship for every faith.

As Israel faces the challenges of a complex reality, its leadership’s message was clear: every citizen matters. Every community counts. And faith when united in peace can be a powerful force for national and regional harmony.

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