In Gaza, the Palestinian Christian community is facing the alarming threat of extermination as Israel continues its intensive bombing campaign. With the death toll surpassing 19,000 since the war commenced on 7 October, the relentless attacks have resulted in widespread devastation and the dwindling of the Christian population.

Prior to the Israeli siege and blockade in 2007, Gaza was home to approximately 3,000 Christians. However, the number has steadily declined over the years, with around 1,000 remaining before the recent wave of violence. Tragically, that number has dropped further to a mere 800, as more lives are claimed every day.

Chillingly, churches have become targets in the ongoing bombardment, leaving the community even more fearful for their safety and the continued existence of their religious spaces. The historic St Porphyrius church was hit by bombs on 19 October, resulting in the tragic loss of 18 lives, including Hammam Farah's cousin, Soliman. Farah, a Palestinian Christian residing in Canada, speaks of his family's harrowing experiences and the increasing anxieties within the community.

Israel's military campaigns have extended beyond targeted airstrikes, with a complete cutoff of essential supplies, including fuel, water, food, and electricity for the besieged strip since 9 October. The continuous attacks on churches have left Farah and others extremely worried and anxious. Reports indicate that Israeli tanks have surrounded the Holy Family's church, also firing upon a nearby convent where individuals with disabilities were seeking refuge.

Ryan al-Natour, a Palestinian Christian from Australia, expresses his concerns that the current attacks are intentional efforts to eliminate Palestinians from the Gaza Strip. Al-Natour describes the situation as a genocidal campaign, highlighting the stark contrast between the Israeli narrative of being the "savior" of Christians and the harsh realities faced by Gaza's Christian population.

The comments made by an Israeli politician declaring that "there are no Christians in Gaza" have further ignited anger and frustration within the community. These remarks are seen as part of a broader strategy aimed at dividing Palestinians based on religious diversity, reflecting a settler colonial approach to conquer and weaken indigenous populations.

The fear of Palestinian Christians being wiped out from Gaza has deeply affected those in the diaspora as well. The ongoing violence has cast a somber shadow over traditional Christmas celebrations, prompting many to refrain from participating, feeling it is inappropriate given the current circumstances.

Sally Dabeet-Asfour, a diaspora Palestinian Christian with family in Gaza, warns that without the presence of Christians in the region, their churches will cease to exist. Dabeet-Asfour emphasizes the historical significance of Christian presence in Gaza, as it dates back to the time of Christ and his disciples. She underscores the need to protect the churches, which hold immense religious and cultural importance for the Christian community.

The plight of Palestinian Christians in Gaza highlights the devastating impact of the Israeli occupation and its relentless military strikes. The community's struggles have extended beyond limitations on movement and the destruction of land and resources. Despite claims of Christian-Muslim divisions, testimonies reveal a peaceful coexistence and support during times of hardship.

As the Israeli bombardment persists, the international community watches with growing concern for the survival of Gaza's Christian community. The urgent need for intervention and protection becomes ever more crucial to prevent the potential eradication of this ancient Christian presence in the region.