Anglican Bishops Welcome Release of Palestinian Christian Woman Layan Nasir From Israeli Prison

Anglican church leaders in England and the United States welcomed the release of Layan Nasir, a 25-year-old Christian Palestinian woman, from Damon Prison in Israel. Nasir had been held in detention, and her case drew significant attention from church leaders who advocated for her release.

Archbishop Hosam Naoum, the Anglican Archbishop in Jerusalem, and Canon Richard Sewell issued statements praising her release. Both had been vocal advocates for Nasir during her detention.

Anglican bishops in England and the United States had written letters and made public statements calling for Nasir's release over the past several months. Church leaders said her case represented the broader situation of Palestinian Christians caught in the conflict.

Nasir's family said she was in good health and grateful for the support she received from the church community. Details about the circumstances of her release were not immediately available.

The Anglican Church has maintained a presence in the Holy Land for more than a century. The Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem includes congregations in Israel, Palestine, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria.

The release comes as the conflict in Gaza continues. Christian communities in Gaza and the West Bank have faced significant hardship during the fighting. Several churches and Christian institutions in Gaza have been damaged or destroyed.

Church leaders have called for a ceasefire and for the protection of civilians, including the Christian minority in the region. The Vatican has also been active in diplomatic efforts, with Pope Leo XIV meeting with leaders from multiple sides of the conflict.