The Serbian Orthodox Church has warned that Christians in Palestine are facing persecution and discrimination, stressing the importance of preserving their longstanding presence in the region.

In a letter to Palestinian official Ramzi Khouri, Serbian Patriarch Porfirije expressed solidarity with the Palestinian people and concern over deteriorating conditions affecting Christians and other residents of the region.

Khouri is a member of the Executive Committee of the Palestine Liberation Organization and chairs the Higher Presidential Committee for Church Affairs in Palestine.

The Serbian Orthodox Church said Christians in Palestine are experiencing “suffering, persecution and discrimination,” emphasizing that the suffering of civilians, regardless of their faith or background, is incompatible with human dignity.

The church called for the protection of Christian communities, noting that Christians have maintained a continuous presence in the region for more than 2,000 years and remain an integral part of its history and heritage.

It also warned that excluding or marginalizing any religious or ethnic community could undermine the region’s social and religious fabric, while calling for respect for international law and freedom of religion.

Porfirije said the Serbian Orthodox Church would continue to raise the protection of Christian communities and the pursuit of peace in the Middle East in its engagements with political leaders and international institutions.

The Palestinian committee has repeatedly raised concerns over attacks on Christian communities and institutions in the occupied West Bank, including occupied East Al-Quds, as well as restrictions affecting worship, education, and access to religious sites.

The situation has also affected the Gaza Strip, where five Palestinians were killed early Saturday, including four women, two of whom were Christians.