Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a Christmas Eve message emphasizing that Israel is the only country in the Middle East where Christians are thriving and can practice their faith freely. In a video statement, he contrasted Israel's treatment of Christians with incidents in nearby regions, referencing an arson attack on a Christmas tree in a church in Jenin and noting the arrest of suspects by local authorities. Netanyahu highlighted that Israel's Christian population is growing, unlike in neighboring countries where Christian communities are shrinking. He concluded by assuring Christians worldwide that Israel stands with them against persecution.