Addressing an event hosted by the Pontifical Institute for Foreign Missions (PIME) in Milan as part of Missionary Month, Bishop Paolo Martinelli spoke about the situation of the religious sisters who remained in Sana'a and Hodeidah, despite the ongoing war and dire conditions. Their work is "essential" and "appreciated by the local population." Meanwhile, fresh fighting broke out between Houthis and pro-Saudi forces.
On Sunday, the Israeli cabinet approved a proposal for formal recognition of the genocide, which now goes before the Knesset, the Israeli parliament, for a vote. This has sparked criticism in Turkey and Azerbaijan. For Armenians, it is a political move that reflects current tensions and conflicts. For Kegham Balian, an activist with “Save The ArQ,” Israel’s action is an "insult to the memory" of the 1.5 million murdered by the Ottoman Empire.
Attieh Fard, a politician and lawyer who has been in the United Kingdom for years, spoke to AsiaNews about the signing of an agreement that leaves international tensions and critical issues in the country unresolved. Iran’s hardliners could block signing, while the regime could use the moment to strengthen stability and its grip on power. The call for a "free" Iran may still lead to fresh street protests.
Last week, the authorities evicted security staff and residents from Forman Christian College University. They were given “24 hours” to remove all property and historical artefacts. The administration is seeking a legal solution to retain control of the building. Christian activist: “The government has hurt the community’s feelings”.
In the last Christian village in the West Bank, provocations by Israeli settlers are increasing in intensity. For Father Bashar, the atmosphere is one "of fear and intimidation”. Residents appeal to the authorities and NGOs to intervene "urgently”. A parish report documents the attacks that occurred in May.
Many projects are in the southeast of the country, an area home to sizable religious minorities. This is the case of the G25 Solar Power Plant near the Chaldean village of Aynwardo. For the Turkish government, the project is of "public interest" and must be backed. Christian MP George Aryo has already raised the issue (in vain) in parliament.
The new primate, who will take office on 29 May in Baghdad, outlines to AsiaNews the priorities of his mission at the helm of one of the oldest Churches in the East. The years spent among the diaspora communities in Australia and the tragedy of ISIS during his time as bishop in Mosul are the two cornerstones of his episcopate. His relationship with the Muslim world and his commitment to stemming the exodus, ensuring a future for Christians in the Middle East.
The charges against Bahar Saharaian reportedly include ‘propaganda activities’ against the Islamic Republic and ‘spreading false news’. In 2022, she had already been imprisoned for joining her colleagues’ protest against the crackdown on demonstrations following the death of Mahsa Amini. Hotel closed for failing to comply with hijab rules and record number of executions in 2025.
The prelate last week addressed the plenary session of the Australian Catholic Bishops' Conference (ACBC), highlighting his country’s multiple challenges, from earthquakes and healthcare to war and the economy. He bore witness to the devastation caused by the 2021 military coup while reiterating the strength of the local Catholic community. The US State Department acknowledges religious persecution.
A bill before the Knesset has passed first reading, granting Israel control over antiquities in the Palestinian territories, where violence settler continues. For Prof Sabella, a climate of insecurity is pushing families to leave. Jewish schools are fuelling an anti-Christian ideology. From Gaza and Iran to Lebanon, the trauma caused by wars must be overcome.
Shakeel and Sammer Masih, sewer cleaners, are the latest victims of workplace fatalities among Christians. Activists denounce the failure to comply with safety protocols. The Bishop of the Sahiwal Baptist Church has spoken out, and the authorities have promised a thorough investigation. Also weighing heavily is the lack of access to education for Christians, who are exploited in dangerous jobs.
A nun has been attacked, the door of the Armenian cathedral has been spat upon, symbols of the faith have been desecrated. Abbot Schnabel spoke to AsiaNews about what is happening. Some places like Mount Zion are more at risk because extremists and radicals consider them their own. In the case of the attack against the Tabgha church, the “lawyer who defended the arsonists was Itamar Ben-Gvir. Now he is the minister in charge of national security, in charge of my security,” said the abbot.
An amendment amending the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) has been introduced in the Lower House. Among other things, the bill proposes the establishment of an “authority” tasked with “seizing, managing and disposing of” the assets of the affected organisations. For Fr Thelakkatt, it is “cloaked in rhetoric” about “national security” but is a tool to fuel the “nationalist ideology” of Hindutva.
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