West Bank Christians Face Rising Challenges Amid Israel-Hamas Ceasefire

Recent developments in the West Bank have raised concerns among local Christians, who have reported increased challenges following the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. The ceasefire, which was established six weeks ago, has resulted in heightened security measures and travel restrictions that have affected the daily lives of many residents.

Father Louis Salman, a Catholic youth chaplain in the West Bank, expressed to Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) that the ceasefire has exacerbated the situation for local Christians. “For us, in the West Bank, the ceasefire has made the situation even worse,” he shared.

As part of the ceasefire terms, Israel agreed to release over 600 Palestinian prisoners, many of whom are being relocated to the West Bank instead of Gaza. This shift has prompted Israel to increase the number of security checkpoints in the area, impacting the movement of residents.

According to Sami El-Yousef, CEO of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem, there is ongoing land annexation by Israel in the West Bank, accompanied by significant evictions. “We have seen more annexation of land in the West Bank, as well as the eviction of around 16,000 people from refugee camps in Jenin, with the physical infrastructure being razed, so they have nowhere to return to,” El-Yousef reported to ACN.

He further highlighted the fragmentation of the West Bank, noting the existence of 185 gates and over 900 checkpoints, a situation overshadowed by the events in Gaza. “The West Bank is now completely fragmented, but because of what has been going on in Gaza, none of this gets much international attention,” he added, feeling that the “tide is very much against us.”

Despite these challenges, El-Yousef acknowledged the Catholic Church’s strengthened position in the region over the past year and a half. This improvement is largely due to the Church’s unwavering support for the local community, particularly those affected by the conflict, aided by the broader global church network.

In a predominantly Jewish and Muslim region, Father Salman emphasized the significance of preserving a Christian presence. “As Christians from Jesus’ homeland, we have a duty to stay here, where he lived, where he died, and where he rose again,” he stated.

Pope Francis, despite his health issues, has consistently shown concern for the Catholic community residing in Gaza, underscoring the Vatican’s attention to the region’s Christian population.