Jews and Christians United Against Persecution

A “United Nations for Christians”

Netanyahu’s proposed strategy centers on forming an international coalition, which he described as “a United Nations of countries that support Christian communities around the world.” The aim of the coalition would be to provide mutual aid and counter threats from radical Islamist extremism. Israel intends to contribute actively by sharing its counterterrorism expertise, intelligence, diplomatic leverage and coordinated security efforts with allies like the United States to safeguard beleaguered Christian minorities in high-risk areas.

But why would tiny Israel, a country that has its own battles to fight and is a Jewish as opposed to a Christian nation commit to invest its already stretched resources to a fight that is strictly speaking not hers?

The answer is rooted in a deep connection between Jews and Christians: both face the same adversaries. Radical Islamic extremism makes no distinction in its hostilities toward the two faiths, targeting synagogues and churches, and Jews and Christians, with equal intensity. Netanyahu highlighted this fraternal struggle, describing it as a fight for “our common Judeo–Christian civilization.” He noted that Israel remains the only country in the Middle East where the Christian population is not only protected but thriving and protected, growing steadily even as it declines sharply elsewhere under oppression.

Prominent voices have echoed Netanyahu’s sense of urgency. Evangelical leader Franklin Graham described global Christian persecution as occurring on an “unprecedented scale.” He pointed out that “today, our Christian brothers and sisters across the world are facing persecution and martyrdom.” Former US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo affirmed the unique Judeo–Christian bond, stating, “As a Christian, Judaism is the foundation of my faith. Israel provides more freedom and protection to Christians than Iran does even for Muslims.” These sentiments reinforce the alliance’s foundation, with Israel, alongside the United States and other partners, committing to provide aid to hotspots like Nigeria, where extremist groups like Boko Haram have slaughtered thousands of Christians.

Rooted in Biblical Justice and Solidarity

Israel’s solidarity with persecuted Christians finds deep resonance in Scripture, where God commands His people to stand up for the defenseless. Psalm 82:3–4 (NIV) instructs: “Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked” (Ps. 82:3–4 NIV). In this spirit, the Judeo–Christian alliance embodies God’s call to justice, rescue and deliverance from oppression.

The commitment also echoes the call in Psalm 122:6 (NIV): “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: ‘May those [Jews and Christians] who love you be secure.’” In standing together, Jews and Christians seek peace and protection for one another amid rising threats.

Psalm 83:3-4 (NIV) speaks to the coalitions arrayed against God’s people: “With cunning they conspire against your people; they plot against those you cherish. ‘Come,’ they say, ‘let us destroy them as a nation, so that Israel’s name is remembered no more.’” Plots to erase God's people are as old as time. God’s word is a persistent reminder to us today of the essential reason Jews and Christians must unite: we are facing the same enemies, intent on our destruction.

Christians and Jews Shoulder to Shoulder

In recent years, Christians have answered the biblical mandate to bless Israel with steadfast support and heartfelt prayers. Now Israel is returning that blessing by standing shoulder to shoulder with persecuted believers, defending them against forces that are arrayed against both Jews and Christians.

Yet as Netanyahu emphasized, the initiative is not merely a response to Christian support for Israel but born from strategic necessity. “Just as the Christian community stood with us in difficult moments, we will stand with you—and help in every way to protect Christian communities all over the world.” With efforts expected to expand throughout 2026, we are looking forward to see the results of the initiative. This Judeo–Christian alliance builds a shared wall of resistance and resilience against oppression, and is committed to defending religious freedom for all who share this heritage of faith.