The Christian population of the city of Taibe is declining due to attacks by settlers

Taybeh, the only Christian town in the West Bank, is facing a serious demographic crisis: over the past three years, one-tenth of its residents have left the town. The main reason for the mass exodus of believers has been systematic attacks by Israeli settlers, according to Christian Today.

The local parish priest, Father Bashar Fawadleh, expressed deep concern about the situation, emphasizing the risk of the Christian presence in the region disappearing entirely. According to the priest, the community faces constant threats, vandalism, and arson attacks on cars and olive groves. Community representatives also reported attempts to set fire to the local church. “One day, this land will be emptied of Christians, and Christianity will lose its roots here,” the clergyman warned.

The situation worsened in August when the Israel Defense Forces declared Taybeh a “restricted military zone” in an effort to curb the violence. However, as Father Bashar notes, these measures only exacerbated the humanitarian problems: residents’ freedom of movement was severely restricted, leading to a deep economic crisis. Now, parishioners and clergy are not demanding privileges, but merely the guarantee of basic human rights and safety so they can live on their native land.