GENEVA — The World Evangelical Alliance has called on Israel to protect Palestinian civilians and address reported settler violence in the West Bank, highlighting concerns surrounding the predominantly Christian village of Taybeh.
The WEA made the appeal during the 63rd session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva on September 22.
Speaking on behalf of Evangelicals in the Middle East, WEA representative Markus Hofer called for the protection of Palestinian civilians, prevention of settler attacks and accountability for abuses.
The organization placed particular attention on Taybeh, a predominantly Christian Palestinian village northeast of Ramallah.
According to the WEA, residents have reported repeated settler incursions, intimidation, property damage, fires and attempts to take control of privately owned land. The organization also said residents have reported being prevented from reaching some of their land.
The WEA called on Israel to halt settlement expansion and the appropriation of Palestinian land, arguing that continued expansion and violence are contributing to displacement in the West Bank, including among Christians.
The statement reflects growing concern among Christian organizations about the security and future of Christian communities in the region.
Taybeh also carries biblical significance. The village is traditionally associated with Ephraim, where the Gospel of John says Jesus withdrew with His disciples before His final journey toward Jerusalem.
The WEA said its appeal is grounded in the belief that every person has equal dignity and the right to live safely and peacefully on their land.
Reference:
christianitydaily/news/wea-raises-alarm-over-violence-in-west-bank.html
un.worldea/wea-urges-israel-to-protect-palestinian-civilians-halt-settler-violence-and-settlement-expansion-in-the-west-bank/
