Budapest, July 2025 – In the face of recent brutal attacks on religious minorities across Syria and Gaza, Hungary has once again stepped up with tangible support and solidarity for persecuted Christian communities in the Middle East. Tristan Azbej, the State Secretary for the Aid of Persecuted Christians and Head of the Hungary Helps Program, announced emergency humanitarian assistance to the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem.
“Christians, alongside Druze and Alawites, have once again become the target of horrific violence,” Azbej shared via his official Facebook account, “Hungary—true to its values—stands firmly by these communities.”
Humanitarian Crisis in Syria and Gaza
In Syria, deadly violence has taken the lives of several minorities, including Christians. In Gaza, official reports confirm that the Catholic Church of the Holy Family was struck, tragically resulting in the loss of human lives. These events have sparked international concern, particularly within the faith-based humanitarian community.
In response, Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Péter Szijjártó, held urgent discussions with his Israeli counterpart, Gideon Sa’ar, to assess the regional situation. Both parties strongly condemned the attacks and affirmed the necessity of international cooperation to protect vulnerable communities.
Hungary’s Immediate Response: Solidarity and Support
Tristan Azbej contacted Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, who is currently in Gaza. During their exchange, Hungary expressed heartfelt solidarity with the local Christian population and committed HUF 10 million (~€25,000) to bolster the Patriarchate’s humanitarian outreach efforts.
“We offered HUF 10 million in ambulance aid to support the Latin Patriarchate’s work on the ground. This isn’t just about assistance—it’s a testament to Christian solidarity,” Azbej affirmed.
Faith and Foreign Policy Intersect
Hungary’s aid efforts are not isolated gestures—they are part of a broader strategic and moral framework built over the past decade. Since its inception in 2016, the Hungary Helps Program has operated on the principle of “helping communities where they live” instead of encouraging migration. It emphasizes direct partnerships, cultural respect, and rapid, targeted responses.
The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem, a vital Christian institution in the Holy Land, plays a crucial role in delivering medical, educational, and pastoral care in crisis areas. Hungary’s continued cooperation reinforces its commitment to preserving religious freedom, human dignity, and humanitarian values globally.
Looking Forward
In light of ongoing instability, Azbej underscored that Hungary will remain vigilant and ready to act.
“Every Christian community in crisis can count on the unwavering support of the Hungarian nation,” he emphasized. “We stand not only as observers but as active partners in promoting peace, protection, and preservation of human life.”
Hungary invites other nations and international partners to follow suit, recognizing the need for both compassionate aid and firm diplomatic condemnation of violence against religious minorities.
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