Senior Christian leaders in Jerusalem issued a warning Saturday against outside interference threatening the unity and future of Christianity in the Holy Land, specifically citing Christian Zionism and political actors linked to Israel. The Patriarchs and Heads of the Churches in Jerusalem released a statement saying that recent activities by local individuals promoting ideologies like Christian Zionism mislead the public, create confusion, and harm the unity of their community.

The statement, signed by prominent figures including Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Jerusalem Theophilos III, did not name specific individuals or organizations. However, it broadly condemned those who, according to the church leaders, are advancing a political agenda under the guise of religious belief. The church leaders argue that Christian Zionism, which often involves a belief in the necessity of Jewish control over the Holy Land as a prerequisite for the Second Coming of Christ, distorts core Christian teachings.

"These ideologies undermine the genuine Christian presence in Jerusalem and the Holy Land," the statement read. "They create division and animosity where there should be unity and love."

Christian Zionism, while holding theological roots, has increasingly become intertwined with political movements supporting Israeli policies. This alignment, critics argue, often overlooks the plight of Palestinian Christians and Muslims living in the region. The Jerusalem church leaders expressed concern that the promotion of Christian Zionist ideologies contributes to the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict and undermines efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace.

The churches' statement arrives amid ongoing tensions in Jerusalem and the West Bank. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict continues to fuel political and religious divisions. The Christian community in the Holy Land, while relatively small, plays a significant role in maintaining interfaith dialogue and advocating for peace.

The warning from the Jerusalem Patriarchs and Heads of Churches highlights a growing concern within the Christian community about the impact of politicized religious beliefs on the region. The leaders called on Christians worldwide to be aware of the potential for manipulation and to support efforts that promote reconciliation and understanding in the Holy Land. The churches plan to continue engaging with religious and political leaders to address these concerns and promote a vision of peaceful coexistence.