Christians play a crucial role in combating antisemitism, says Israeli ambassador

In a significant address in Washington, D.C., Israel's Ambassador to the United States, Michael Herzog, spoke to hundreds of Christian students advocating for Israel. The event emphasized the collaboration between Christian and Jewish communities in addressing antisemitism. Herzog underscored the direct connection between Israel's conflict with Hamas and a broader clash of civilizations, suggesting that it represented a fundamental struggle between barbarism and freedom. His remarks highlighted the political and diplomatic support Israel receives from the U.S. administration, reflecting a strong alliance amidst a backdrop of rising tensions and anticipated geopolitical opportunities. Ambassador Herzog articulated two primary focuses for future relations: countering Iran's nuclear ambitions, deemed a grave threat to regional and global stability, and normalizing relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia. He expressed optimism about these opportunities, envisioning them as potentially transformative for Israel's position in the Middle East. The comments were made during a weekend organized in partnership with Passages, a program designed to foster solidarity between Christian students and Israel. Participants were encouraged to continue their advocacy and support for Israel on their campuses and beyond. The Ambassador's speech drew attention to recent actions against Israel, particularly referencing the brutal attacks witnessed on October 7. He pressed that these actions against the Jewish people cannot be solely understood in political terms, but involve a deeper moral dimension. Herzog reiterated the necessity for Christians to join Jews in this battle against what he termed barbarism, emphasizing the shared responsibility to combat antisemitism and support Israel’s right to defend itself. The event, which also included receiving a remarkable gift—the Afghan Liturgical Quire, the oldest Hebrew book—was part of a broader initiative to deepen ties between religious communities and promote understanding. As part of the advancing collaboration, students who attended the gathering were encouraged to visit Israel with Passages to experience its culture and heritage firsthand, further strengthening their commitment to Israel advocacy. Their journey symbolizes a growing trend of Christian support for Israel, showcasing a shift in dynamics around intercultural and interfaith relationships. Herzog's message culminated in an appeal for unity among Jewish and Christian communities to face common challenges, reiterating that such alliances are essential for overcoming shared threats.