Christianity in the Middle East is in danger of “imminent extinction”, the Archbishop of Canterbury has warned.
Figures from charity Open Doors show that 215 million Christians are experiencing significant levels of persecution.
Archbishop Welby has called for the UK Government to pay attention to such figures, and stop ignoring Christian marginalisation.
‘Support and help’
Speaking on the BBC’s Andrew Marr show, Welby said: “The plight of Christians in many parts of the Middle East has become more and more acute.”
He added: “We must support and help them in every way we can. Where they wish to leave, they will be refugees in need of asylum.
“Where, courageously and by the grace of God, they choose to remain, they need publicity and external, visible support.”
‘Forgiveness’
Prince Charles joined the Archbishop in speaking out against persecution.
In a recent address, Prince Charles said he has met “many Christians who, with such inspiring faith and courage, are battling oppression and persecution, or who have fled to escape it.
“Time and again, I have been deeply humbled and profoundly moved by the extraordinary grace and capacity for forgiveness that I have seen in those who have suffered so much”.
The number of Christians granted asylum in Britain has dropped significantly since 2016.