The Digest:
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced that Israel is developing an international agenda to support Christian communities in Nigeria and other regions he described as persecuted by "radical Islam." Speaking to evangelical leaders in Florida, he positioned Israel as the sole global defender of Christians, framing the initiative as a reciprocal gesture for their support.
Key Points:
- Netanyahu identified "radical Shiite Islam" and "radical Sunni Islam" as the primary forces persecuting Christians worldwide, including in Nigeria.
- He stated that Israel is "the only country" that protects and enables Christian communities to thrive.
- The plan involves forming a coalition of nations to aid "beleaguered" Christian communities globally.
- Netanyahu cited Israel's ability to provide intelligence and other unspecified "means" for support in Africa.
- The statement follows U.S. airstrikes in Nigeria on Christmas Day, which Israel publicly supported.
- The Prime Minister had previously called for an end to attacks on Christians in Nigeria.
- This alignment reinforces the close diplomatic and strategic alliance between Israel and the U.S.
Sources: The Cable, Vanguard
