A Bethlehem-based journalist has warned that Christians in Gaza face an uncertain future, predicting a mass exodus from the region.
Paul Calvert told Premier, "I do think the Christian community is going to leave. There will be no Christian community left there. Those with dual citizenship will go, and others with family abroad will try to leave as well. The only ones who will stay are Hamas."
His comments come as Arab leaders gathered in Cairo to discuss a potential future for the war-torn region. The talks follow Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s endorsement of a U.S. proposal to redevelop Gaza into a resort destination, a plan originally floated by former President Donald Trump.
The United Nations estimates that Gaza’s reconstruction will cost over £41 billion, following the destruction caused by the Hamas-led terrorist attack on 7th October. Discussions have included the possibility of an interim governing body involving Arab, Muslim, and Western states to oversee redevelopment.
Calvert stressed that any rebuilding effort would be futile while Hamas remains in power. "What you don’t want is to pour billions into Gaza while Hamas is still in place," he said. "They will just rebuild their tunnels and weapons infrastructure underground, and in 5, 10, or 15 years, we’ll be back in the same situation."
He also emphasised the need for new Palestinian leadership committed to peace. “The last elections brought Hamas to power, and their charter is clear on wanting to destroy Israel. Palestinians need leaders who seek peace, not war,” he added.
Meanwhile, former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn has called for an independent inquiry into the UK’s involvement in the Israel-Gaza conflict, citing concerns about potential breaches of international law. However, Calvert warned that such an inquiry could inflame anti-Israel sentiment and contribute to rising antisemitism.
"I don’t think it will achieve anything," he said. "But what it will do is stir up anti-Israel hatred. People will see it as an attack and use it to fuel further division. We've already seen a huge rise in antisemitism worldwide."
