Netanyahu Highlights Ideological Battle with Evangelical Christian Leaders in Florida
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed Evangelical Christian leaders in Florida shortly after meeting with former President Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago. He described an additional, "eighth front" in what he referred to as a seven-front war—a battle for the hearts and minds of Western audiences, particularly in the United States.
Netanyahu framed this struggle as a defense of a shared Judeo-Christian civilization and urged faith communities to speak out against terrorism. He acknowledged Christian Zionists as central figures in the reestablishment of Israel and emphasized that Israel has no better friends than them.
He identified two existential threats to this civilization: radical Shiite Islam, led by Iran, and radical Sunni Islam, led by the Muslim Brotherhood. Netanyahu also highlighted that Christians face persecution in countries such as Syria, Lebanon, Nigeria, and Turkey, presenting Israel as a protector of these communities.
In advocating for broader cooperation to support Christian communities around the world, Netanyahu proposed the creation of a United Nations comprised of countries committed to aiding Christians, endorsing mutual assistance.
Israel's UN ambassador, Danny Danon, attended the event and described the Evangelical leaders' commitment to Israel as inspiring. He stated that their shared values would further strengthen the bond between Israel and the Evangelical community.
