From the Liveblog of
Sunday, July 9, 2023
Herzog condemns growing attacks on Christians as ‘evil’ and ‘a disgrace’
Lazar Berman is The Times of Israel's diplomatic reporter
Calling such incidents “evil” and “a disgrace,” President Isaac Herzog condemns growing attacks against Christians “in Israel in general and in Jerusalem in particular, including spitting and desecration of graves and churches.”
Speaking at the state memorial ceremony for Zionist visionary Theodor Herzl, Herzog says there has been a recent rise in incidents.
“Israel is committed to eradicating this phenomenon,” he pledges.
“I am also working, and will continue to work with all my might, together with law enforcement and other agencies, to lead initiatives that will bring an end to this disturbing reality, a sick evil, and a true disgrace, for us as a society and as a country,” says Herzog.
He also condemns the recent burning of a Quran in Sweden.
Foreign Minister Eli Cohen will be visiting the Vatican this week, but it remains unclear whether he will meet with Pope Francis.
