Why Are Some Christians Skeptical of Suffering in Gaza?
Many Christians are very concerned about the suffering in Gaza. There is increasing evidence that there is some significant suffering including a famine.
The World Council of Churches has issued a statement on their concern over the crisis in Gaza. But not all Christians feel the same way.
There are some Christians who seem to be quite skeptical of the suffering in Gaza, despite the widespread reports. Why is this?
I would like to offer a few thoughts of why this is.
Pro-Israel Bias
Some Christians have a very specific bias toward Israel. This is not just an acknowledgement that Israel has the right to exist and defend itself. Rather, the modern state of Israel has theological place in their system. Often this involves eschatology.
If Israel says that there is no suffering and sufficient aid is reaching the Gazans, then that is the truth. Plus, even if there was some actual suffering, they may see the expulsion of Palestinians as a positive thing, both for Israel and Christian prophecy.
Concerns About Antisemitism
I am very sympathetic with this one. Some of the anti-Israel commentary is antisemitic and some of the pro-Palestinian voices have been very anti-Jewish. This is a real concern.
It is important to distinguish what are legitimate concerns about Israeli policy and a bias against the Jewish people.
Anti-Muslim Sentiment
There is a strong anti-Muslim feeling among many conservative Christians. This peaked on 9/11 but has continued to simmer. Some Christians see Islam not just as a different religion but as a threat to western society.
Since many Palestinians are Muslim, this does not make some Christians very sympathetic. They may not realize that there is a Christian population among the Palestinians as well.
Culture War
Many conservative Christians are deeply involved in the culture war between conservatives and liberals. Since liberals tend to be pro-Palestinian, for some conservative Christians, that is a good reason to be skeptical of pro-Palestinian claims.
Traditional Media
There is a trend among conservative Christians to be skeptical of mainstream news media. They are often seen as “fake news” that is trying to push an agenda rather than relay the facts. Since the traditional media is almost unanimous about the suffering in Gaza, that’s a reason to doubt it.
I have no doubts that there is significant suffering in Gaza and that there is famine taking place. It is a humanitarian crisis.
I say this with convictions that Israel has the right to exist and the right to defend themselves. I also condemn the Hamas attack on Israel and their murder of Jewish people.
At the same time, there must be a stop to the suffering of the Palestinians in Gaza. Christians need to stand up and speak out for justice.
