Researcher Alarms Over PA Persecution of Christians in Bethlehem

A Christian researcher has raised concerns about the challenges faced by Christians living under Palestinian Authority rule, citing intimidation, religious restrictions, and economic pressure. Elias Zarina, a researcher at the Jerusalem Center for Applied Policy, noted a significant decline in the Christian population of Bethlehem, from 80% before the Oslo Accords to just 7% today. His observations highlight a broader pattern of marginalization and systemic challenges for Christians in the region.

Zarina, who previously belonged to the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine’s student cell, described a climate of fear among Christians under Palestinian Authority control. He argued that Christians have limited influence over decision-making processes, despite the presence of Christian figures in senior positions. He also criticized the Authority’s democratic credentials, pointing out that elections have not been held since 2005.

According to Zarina, Christians who embrace a Western lifestyle face particular pressure. He claimed that in Bethlehem, local Fatah officials and Popular Front activists have sent masked individuals to businesses displaying Christmas decorations, discouraging celebrations in solidarity with Gaza during the war. This reflects a broader pattern of cultural and religious suppression, with Christians often caught in the crossfire of political tensions.

The pressure extends beyond religious observance to property ownership and personal security. Zarina alleged that individuals with political connections attempt to acquire Christian-owned homes and businesses, sometimes using intimidation and their influence within the Palestinian legal system. He stated that 154 Christian families had emigrated from the Bethlehem area over the past two and a half years, underscoring the impact of these pressures on community stability.

Zarina also raised concerns about the education system, arguing that Palestinian school curricula promote hostility toward Jews and Israel. He pointed to the inclusion of figures such as Leila Khaled, the Palestinian militant known for her involvement in aircraft hijackings, as an example of what he considers the glorification of terrorism. He called for greater Israeli oversight of educational content to promote coexistence, while acknowledging that some schools in eastern Jerusalem have adopted Israel’s education curriculum.

He estimated that these schools represent only 30% to 35% of educational institutions in the area and claimed that extracurricular programs can continue to promote hostility. This highlights the complex interplay between education, identity, and political ideology in shaping community dynamics.

The researcher further alleged that Christian women face restrictions on their clothing and freedom of movement, while Christian-owned land and businesses are vulnerable to appropriation. He described cases in which successful Christian entrepreneurs were pressured to pay protection money or surrender commercial interests. These allegations point to a systemic pattern of economic and social marginalization, with Christians often bearing the brunt of political and ideological conflicts.

Zarina’s concerns reflect a broader call for accountability and justice, emphasizing the need for protection of religious freedom and community rights. His testimony serves as a reminder of the delicate balance required to uphold peace and coexistence in the Holy Land.

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