Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed a gathering of Evangelical Christian leaders in Florida, a move signaling the critical importance he places on maintaining strong faith-based alliances within the United States. This outreach occurs at a time of increasing internal division within the U.S. regarding the ongoing conflict and the level of American support for Israel.
The Florida meeting followed closely on the heels of discussions with former President Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago, a setting chosen amidst growing debate among conservatives about the extent of U.S. backing for Israel and the broader direction of American foreign policy in the Middle East.
Netanyahu portrayed Israel as having largely prevailed in a complex, multi-faceted conflict, describing it as a “seven-front war” that has, in his view, resulted in significant victories. However, he cautioned that a new, more insidious challenge is emerging – a battle for influence in the West.
He identified this new “eighth front” as a struggle to win over hearts and minds, particularly among younger generations in the United States. Netanyahu framed this not merely as an Israeli concern, but as a defense of a shared “Judeo-Christian civilization.”
The Prime Minister argued that confronting this ideological challenge demands the same unwavering determination as military action. He sharply contrasted perspectives that advocate for understanding terrorism with the necessity of actively confronting and defeating it, asserting the importance of faith speaking with a clear voice.
Netanyahu repeatedly underscored the deep historical and ideological connection between Christian Zionists and the establishment of Israel. He directly credited the support of U.S. Christian communities as being instrumental in the re-creation of a Jewish state, calling them “no better friends.”
During his remarks, Netanyahu revealed details of a recent conversation with President Trump, outlining what he perceives as the global threats facing Israel and its allies. He specifically named “radical Shiite Islam,” with Iran at its core, and “radical Sunni Islam,” represented by the Muslim Brotherhood.
He also drew attention to the escalating persecution of Christians across multiple regions, citing examples in Syria, Lebanon, Nigeria, Turkey, and beyond. Netanyahu positioned Israel as a unique protector of Christian communities, asserting that it is the only nation actively defending and enabling their growth.
Netanyahu articulated Israel’s commitment to expanding cooperation to support Christian communities facing threats worldwide. He spoke of a potential “United Nations of countries” dedicated to assisting these communities, mirroring the support Israel receives.
Israel’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, who was present at the meeting, publicly praised the unwavering commitment of the Evangelical leaders. He expressed confidence that their shared values would further strengthen the bond between Israel and the United States.
