As Christians observe IDOP on Nov. 3 and Nov. 10, increased tensions in the Middle East following the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attacks on Israel have fueled Islamic extremist sentiment against Christians, noted a spokesperson from a Swiss-based aid organization.

“Since Oct. 7, 2023, the entire Middle East has been under intense strain and could erupt at any moment,” the spokesperson, whose name is withheld for security reasons, stated. “Political, social, and human rights advancements toward possible reconciliation—such as between Saudi Arabia and Iran or Israel and the Arab world—now seem distant. This shift has severe implications for persecuted Christians, who remain vulnerable and are often wrongfully viewed as enemies of the state.”

The leader’s prominent Muslim father forced him and his family to leave their home.

“He had to escape and go into hiding with his wife and son in a secure, undisclosed location as tensions escalated around Oct. 7, and people grew more radicalized,” said the spokesperson. “Thanks to the funds we received, we were able to help him rent a safe apartment and cover some living expenses for his family.”

Border tensions have long affected Egypt, where Israel’s military actions against Hamas have divided church members’ opinions. Additionally, Egyptian Christians are struggling with currency devaluation and rising costs.

Persecution is a persistent challenge, particularly for Muslim-background believers like Sara (name changed), an educated seeker of truth. When she started asking her husband and Islamic scholars questions about Islam, she found their responses unsatisfactory.

Source: christianpost.com