Christian Leaders Convene in Jerusalem for Friends of Zion Summit

More than 1,000 Christian leaders from 117 nations have gathered in Jerusalem for the annual Friends of Zion Ambassador Summit. Running through October 11, the event aims to bolster international Christian support for Israel and address the rise of global antisemitism. The summit is organized by American evangelist Mike Evans in partnership with the Israeli Foreign Ministry.

A significant portion of the attendees, approximately 300, are young adults between the ages of 18 and 29. Organizers stated that this focus on younger participants is intended to provide a new generation with firsthand experience of the country. Throughout the week, delegates are scheduled to meet with Israeli officials, including President Isaac Herzog and Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, and hear testimonies from survivors and families affected by the October 7, 2023, attacks.

Ambassador George Deek, Israel’s special envoy to the Christian world, emphasized that the gathering serves to demonstrate that Israel is not isolated. Following the summit, participants are expected to return to their home countries to serve as ambassadors for Israel and advocate against antisemitic sentiment.