International Memorial for Oct. 7 in Jerusalem
On Wednesday, leaders from the Christian community and various influencers converged in Jerusalem for a memorial event linked to the Friends of Zion Ambassador Summit, commemorating the tragic events of October 7.
This gathering also saw the participation of Jewish leaders, former hostages, families who are grieving, injured Israelis, ambassadors, and diplomats as they honored the anniversary of the massacre perpetrated by Hamas in 2023.
Dr. Mike Evans, who established the Friends of Zion Heritage Center in Jerusalem, described October 7 as “the worst day in Israel’s history,” a time filled with despair. He expressed that it wasn’t just about the more than 1,200 lives that were lost that day, but also about the over 70,000 people who faced dislocation and loss of their loved ones. He remarked on the deep suffering within the nation, intensified by a sense of isolation and a perception of abandonment by the global community.
Evans emphasized, “What I’m sharing on October 7 is this: ‘You’re wrong. The world is standing with you.’” He highlighted the importance of showing solidarity, stating that those present represented various faces and voices from across the globe coming together to offer support to the Jewish people. “It’s not political. It’s for the Jewish people: You are not alone. We’re with you. We love you,” he added.
Support for Israel Amid Ongoing Conflict
The event, moderated by actor Nathaniel Buzolic and reporter Erin Molan, was broadcast live to an international audience. Buzolic remarked on the lack of acknowledgment for Jewish suffering compared to other groups, particularly highlighting the silence surrounding violence against Jews by radical Islamist factions. He stressed the moral duty to advocate for Israel, characterizing the animosity towards the country as rooted in an extremist ideology that opposes peace.
Attendees included released hostages Agam Berger, Sagui Dekel-Chen, Bar Kupershtein, Evyatar David, and Michael Kupershtein, a Holocaust survivor. Sylvan Adams, president of the World Jewish Congress Israel, also joined the event, reinforcing the message of solidarity.
The Friends of Zion Ambassador Summit, now in its second year, attracted over 1,000 individuals from more than 120 countries. Evans reflected on the significance of Christian Zionists in the global alliance, stating that while there may be political disagreements, their backing of the Jewish people unites them.
Highlighting the involvement of youth, Evans pointed out the aim to connect with younger generations, who face influences that distort narratives about Israel, particularly from sources like Qatar and artificial intelligence.
The summit commenced with a gathering on Jerusalem’s Mount of Olives, a site rich in biblical significance, representing a powerful symbol of shared faith among participants.
George Deek, Israel’s Special Envoy to the Christian World, expressed pride in the international support Israel has garnered from both Jewish and Christian communities since the October 7 attacks. He strongly affirmed that this gathering illustrates Israel’s close ties with the Christian community, countering narratives intended to create division.
Deek also noted the historical connections between Christians and Jews, emphasizing shared heritage, the commitment to ensure freedom from antisemitism, and the right for Christians to live without fear.
As part of the summit activities, participants ventured to Yad Vashem, Israel’s Holocaust memorial, and planned visits to the Nova music festival site—one of the attack locations—later in the week.
Hooman Khalili, a participant born in Iran who supports Israel, shared his experiences of traveling to Israel multiple times. He expressed his desire to connect with others who share similar values and to pray for the state of Israel.
