From Turkey to India, Nativity Celebrations Marred by Anti-Christian Violence
Christians faced heightened threats and attacks during Christmas across several countries, with arrests in Turkey, warnings in Nigeria, and dozens of reported incidents in India raising renewed concerns over religious freedom.
JAN. 5, 2026 — Christmas celebrations have again highlighted the dangers faced by Christians in several parts of the world, with arrests, warnings, and reported attacks spanning multiple countries. In Turkey, authorities detained more than 100 suspected ISIS members accused of plotting Christmas-related attacks. In Nigeria, a Catholic bishop warned earlier this year that massacres targeting Christians during major religious festivals are becoming “customary” in some regions.
India has also seen a surge in incidents. International Christian Concern (ICC) reported more than 80 anti-Christian incidents during the Nativity season, some involving violence. According to ICC, many of the attacks were linked to Hindu extremist groups, including the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and the Bajrang Dal.
Incidents included vandalism of Christmas decorations in a Raipur shopping center and the disruption of carol processions in Kerala. Critics argue that India’s “anti-conversion” laws are frequently used to target Christians and other minorities. Journalists and Christian leaders have condemned the attacks, warning they undermine India’s constitutional guarantees of religious freedom.
Previously, the UOJ reported that Pat. John X urged Christians to stand firm in the Middle East.
