Netanyahu Highlights Threats to Christian-Israeli Bonds

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has raised concerns about a strategic campaign in the United States aimed at weakening the longstanding alliance between Christians and Jews. Speaking at a Jerusalem event attended by Pastor Paula White-Cain, a spiritual advisor to President Donald Trump, Netanyahu emphasized the importance of the Judeo-Christian partnership that supports Israel’s Christian community. He warned that this alliance is being misrepresented, with Israel falsely portrayed as a threat to Christians.

Christian Community Flourishes in Israel

Netanyahu pointed out that Israel is home to a thriving Christian community, a rarity in the Middle East where Christians often face persecution. He contrasted the vibrant Christian life in Nazareth with the declining Christian population in Bethlehem, which fell from 80% to under 20% after control shifted to the Palestinian Authority, resulting in reduced protections.

Online and Media Narratives Fuel Division

Pastor John Hagee, founder of Christians United for Israel (CUFI), noted that online agitators and some politicians are exploiting antisemitic narratives to gain notoriety. He stressed that Christian Zionism is crucial for American support of Israel and warned against efforts to drive a wedge between Jews and Christians. Hagee also criticized media portrayals of Israel as an enemy of Christianity, calling for unity against such falsehoods.

Recent Allegations and Diplomatic Tensions

Netanyahu’s remarks come amid allegations of extremist settlers targeting a historic church in the West Bank and an IDF mortar strike on a church in Gaza. While Israeli authorities confirmed no damage to the ancient church ruins, these incidents have sparked diplomatic and religious tensions.

Evangelical Support for Israel Faces Challenges

Dr. Mike Evans, founder of the Friends of Zion Heritage Center, highlighted efforts by anti-Israel actors to influence young minds on American campuses. He urged Bible-believing Christians to maintain a biblical worldview supporting Israel. David Parsons of the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem noted that while Christian support for Israel remains strong, it faces challenges from younger generations who may not share their parents’ perspectives.