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Israeli occupier attacks threaten historic Christian presence in West Bank town

In Taybeh, one of the few Palestinian communities with a Christian majority in the occupied West Bank, fears are growing that Israeli occupier attacks on farmland and property could push more families to emigrate, threatening the town’s demographic character and historic Christian presence. Local officials and clergy warned of the impact of rising violence by Israeli occupiers, which has coincided with worsening living and economic conditions in the town. Taybeh, east of Ramallah, is one of the few Palestinian towns in the West Bank that still has a Christian majority, according to church and local accounts. Residents say the town’s Christian roots go back thousands of years. Residents say the attacks have deepened fears in the town, even as they stress their determination to remain on their land. Also Read: Pakistan raises red flag over illegal settlements in West Bank, calls for Israel accountability In recent years, Israeli occupiers have established several ill...

Pope Francis calls for climate action during visit to Indonesia mosque

Pope Francis and Grand Imam Nasaruddin Umar of Indonesia's Istiqlal Mosque have issued a joint declaration denouncing religiously motivated violence and calling for urgent climate action. This historic agreement, signed in Jakarta, marks a significant moment in interfaith dialogue. During the visit, the Pope and the Grand Imam addressed the misuse of religion to justify violence and urged for interreligious dialogue as a means to resolve conflicts. They also highlighted the environmental crisis as a barrier to peaceful coexistence. The signing took place at the Istiqlal Mosque, a symbol of religious tolerance in Indonesia, and was preceded by a visit to the "Tunnel of Friendship" connecting the mosque to Jakarta’s main Catholic cathedral. The tunnel represents a commitment to mutual respect in a country where religious freedom is constitutionally protected but sometimes challenged by violence. Pope Francis, who is on his first visit to Indonesia in 35 years, emphasized that religion should promote human dignity rather than division. The Pope’s trip, which includes visits to Papua New Guinea, East Timor, and Singapore, is the longest of his pontificate, covering over 20,000 miles. The gathering was attended by representatives of Indonesia’s six officially recognised religions, reflecting the country's diverse religious landscape. Despite official support for religious freedom, Indonesia has faced instances of religious violence, including recent attacks on Christian churches. Following Indonesia, Pope Francis will visit Papua New Guinea, East Timor, and Singapore, continuing his efforts to foster interfaith understanding and address global issues.

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