During US Trip, Netanyahu Meets with Evangelical Leaders Supporting Israel

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, during his busy visit to Washington, prioritized meetings with two key faith communities anchoring American support for Israel: Jewish communal leadership and evangelical Christian faith leaders. These meetings underscored the enduring alliance between Israel and these influential groups.

At two separate events on Wednesday evening, Netanyahu expressed his heartfelt appreciation to these community leaders for their unwavering support. He listened to their prayers for the safe return of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza, for the peace of Israeli soldiers, and for the security of the State of Israel.

Netanyahu particularly praised the evangelicals for their vigorous efforts to mobilize youth support for Israel, acknowledging their deep commitment and the strength of their advocacy for shared values and truths.

The Christian event featured 15 to 20 prominent pro-Israel evangelical leaders, including CUFI Pastor John Hagee, Family Research Council President Tony Perkins, Philos Project Executive Director Luke Moon, televangelist Paula White, and Friends of Zion chairman Mike Evans. Latino evangelical pastors, including Carlos Ortiz, were also present.

Despite differences in political loyalties, with the Jewish community divided and evangelicals largely voting Republican, both groups share a steadfast love and concern for Israel. The pro-Israel Christian community, significantly larger, plays a crucial role in anchoring America's political support for Israel.

Pastor Hagee affirmed, “Our message today to the prime minister and to the Jewish people of Israel and the United States is that the Christians of America stand solidly with Israel. We are appalled at the way our government has been treating the Jewish people, and we want the people of Israel to know that we are steadfastly supporting them.”

When asked about Netanyahu's efforts in fostering ties with pro-Israel Christians, Hagee responded, “I think the prime minister has done a good job, period. He has managed the affairs of the State of Israel magnificently, especially in maintaining strong relations with the Christian community.”

Pastor Tony Perkins emphasized the unique bond between evangelicals and Israel. “I think Israel and the Jewish people have no greater supporter, ally, and friend than evangelical, Bible-believing Christians in this country,” he said. “We share the Book and the values. As believers, we believe what Genesis 12 says, that ‘those who bless Israel will be blessed.’”

Perkins explained the political alignment of pro-Israel Christians, noting their preference for candidates who uphold biblical principles. This has led to strong support for former President Donald Trump, who they believe most closely aligns with these values.

Pastor Mario Bramnick's message to Netanyahu was simple: “Stand the line.” He added, “We are so grateful that he is standing strong as the leader of the nation of Israel should in protecting its sovereignty and security.”

Bramnick highlighted the importance of strong Jewish-Christian relations and the need to resist pressure for a two-state solution, which he argued would reward terrorism and undermine Israel's security.

Mike Evans, a long-time friend of Netanyahu, asserted the critical role of evangelical support for Israel. “Without the support of Christians, there would be hardly any support in the United States for Israel,” he said. “Evangelicals are the bedrock foundation of support for the entire State of Israel.”

Netanyahu’s meetings and his address to Congress reflect his ongoing efforts to solidify and expand the robust support Israel enjoys among American faith communities. His commitment to these relationships continues to strengthen Israel’s standing and security on the global stage.

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