The Coptic Church's Stance on Israel and Palestinian Rights
The Coptic Orthodox Church in Egypt, under Pope Tawadros II, has recently reiterated its position on the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Following the Palestinian resistance's attacks on Israeli positions on October 7, 2023, the Church issued a statement condemning the violence and loss of civilian lives, while praising the Egyptian government's efforts to mediate peace. This statement reflects a historical pattern of the Coptic Church's engagement with the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, dating back to the establishment of Israel in 1948.
Historically, the Coptic Church has maintained a critical stance toward Israel, influenced by theological beliefs and a commitment to Arab identity. Notably, Pope Shenouda III, who led the Church from 1971 until his death in 2012, was a vocal opponent of Israeli policies and supported the Palestinian cause. His refusal to visit Israel during the Camp David Accords and the subsequent ban on Copts visiting Jerusalem highlighted the Church's opposition to normalization with Israel.
Shifts in Theological and Political Engagement
In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in the Coptic Church's approach to the Israeli-Palestinian issue. The current leadership, while still acknowledging the plight of Palestinians, has adopted a more conciliatory tone, as evidenced by Pope Tawadros's visit to Israel in 2015 and subsequent encouragement of Copts to visit Jerusalem. This change has sparked debate among Copts and Arab Christians regarding the implications for their identity and theological positions.
The Church's earlier strong theological resistance to Christian Zionism, a movement that links religious beliefs with political support for Israel, has weakened. Figures like Father Matta El Meskeen, who vehemently opposed Christian Zionism and emphasized the Arab identity of Christians, have become less influential in the Church's current discourse. The generational shift in leadership and the rise of Islamic movements in the region have further complicated the Church's role in the national struggle against colonialism.
As the Coptic Church navigates these complex dynamics, the challenge remains to balance its historical commitments to Palestinian rights with contemporary political realities and relationships with the Egyptian state. The lack of a unified stance on the Palestinian issue among Arab Christians, coupled with the growing influence of Christian Zionism, poses significant challenges for the Church's future engagement in regional politics.
