Netanyahu Addresses Christian Leaders in Florida
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke to evangelical Christian leaders in Florida, highlighting Israel’s fight against Islamist persecution of Christians globally. He emphasized the importance of Christian Zionist support for Israel, framing this as a “common fight between Judaism and Christianity.”
During a meeting with leaders from various Christian churches and universities, Netanyahu congratulated them on their engagement with President Trump, commending what he termed “solid wartime decisions.”
He acknowledged the role of Christian Zionists in making Jewish Zionism viable, stating, “You represent the Christian Zionists who made Jewish Zionism possible.” He pointed out that their support, particularly in the United States, has been crucial to the resurgence of the Jewish state.
The Prime Minister characterized their relationship as a “huge partnership,” asserting that they could not ask for better friends, especially given that Christian Zionists have backed Israel “through thick and thin.”
He discussed Israel’s ongoing conflict, framed as a “seven-front war,” and noted that, while battles have been won, a much larger ideological struggle lies ahead. Netanyahu referred to this as an “eighth front,” involving the “hearts and minds of the people,” suggesting that this civilizational struggle reaches beyond Israel itself.
“This is not just a fight for Israel. I think it is a fight for our common Judeo-Christian civilization,” he remarked, cautioning that this struggle will impact Israel, the U.S., their alliance, and the future of Western civilization.
Netanyahu rejected the notion that religious beliefs should falter in the face of violence. He stated, “Faith should be given a voice, and terrorism should not be understood, but should be confronted. It should be confronted and defeated.”
He also shared insights from his meeting with President Trump, describing a global campaign against Israel and the Judeo-Christian tradition, driven by “extremist Shiite Islam” from Iran and “extremist Sunni Islam” linked to the Muslim Brotherhood.
Pointing out the persecution of Christians in regions such as Syria, Lebanon, Nigeria, and Turkey, Netanyahu emphasized that these communities are increasingly at risk. In contrast, he positioned Israel as a safe haven: “A nation protects, enables the growth, defends and ensures the flourishing of Christian communities. And that country is Israel. There is no other.”
He spoke of Israel’s role in forming a “United Nations of nations to support Christian communities” worldwide, asserting that these targeted believers are a “community in distress that deserves our support.” Netanyahu expressed a desire to reciprocate the assistance they receive, suggesting that Israel could help in various ways, particularly in Africa and the Middle East.
“This is our agenda,” he remarked, indicating that this focus would strengthen further in the coming year.
Last week, Netanyahu reaffirmed during a Christmas Eve video address that Israel is “the only country in the Middle East with a thriving Christian community” and pledged that the state “will always stand” with Christians globally.
He concluded the meeting with well-wishes, stating, “May this year be a year of prosperity, peace and security for all of us, and especially for Christian communities around the world.”
