Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accused U.S. and global entities of attempting to sever the bond between Christians and Jews, asserting that this divide undermines Judeo-Christian values and weakens support for Israel. During a speech in Jerusalem, Netanyahu warned that Israel is being portrayed as a threat to Christians, despite its role as a sanctuary for the community in the Middle East. He emphasized Israel’s unique position in protecting Christians, contrasting areas under Palestinian control, where Christian populations have declined significantly.
Pastor John Hagee, a prominent leader in Christian Zionism, warned that antisemitism is being amplified through online and mainstream media to benefit Palestinian terrorists. He argued that Christian Zionism is a bulwark against rising antisemitism, as it underpins American support for Israel. Hagee condemned the attempts to drive a wedge between Jews and Christians, calling the narrative a direct refutation of anti-Israel ideologies.
The comments followed recent incidents involving controversial fires at historical churches in the West Bank and an accidental strike on a Catholic church in Gaza. An investigation found that the church in Gaza was unintentionally hit during military operations, highlighting the complexities around religious sites in conflict zones. Dr. Mike Evans highlighted the investment by anti-Israel actors to influence young minds on American campuses, emphasizing the need for a biblical worldview to counter rising anti-Zionism.
David Parsons of the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem noted that despite challenges, the Christian support for Israel is rooted in centuries of history and will endure. He urged the need to pass the baton to a new generation, emphasizing the importance of firsthand experiences with Israel to maintain this support. With ongoing tensions and conflicts, the Christian alliance with Israel remains a critical component of global Christian identity and values.