Rivlin: Christians ‘paying a terrible price’ for extremism in Middle East

President Reuven Rivlin hosts a gathering of Christian journalists at his official residence in Jerusalem, where he laments violence and persecution toward Christian communities in the Middle East.

“The war in Syria continues and Iran continues to spread hatred and extremism here and across the world. The Christian communities of our region are paying a terrible price. Israel is working with our allies around the world to fight terror and extremism to bring peace to our region,” Rivlin tells the Christian Media Summit.

He also sounds an optimistic note on the possibility of peace between Israel and the Palestinians.

“I believe that we can build understanding between Israelis and Palestinians. I believe we can build confidence between the two peoples. I believe, more than anything, that Israelis and Palestinians are not doomed to live together; we are destined to live together,” he says.