Evangelical Concerns Rise Over Proposed Anti-Proselytization Bill in Israel

Earlier this year, two ultra-Orthodox lawmakers in the Israeli Knesset, Moshe Gafni and Yaakov Asher from United Torah Judaism, proposed a bill that would criminalize religious proselytization. This proposal sparked concern among some evangelical groups after Christian media in the United States reported on the matter in March. Penny Nance, CEO of Concerned Women for America, expressed alarm, noting that if the law passed, evangelicals traveling abroad could face imprisonment for sharing the gospel with locals.

United Torah Judaism has gained political influence due to its role in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s hard-right coalition. Gafni, a long-serving Knesset member, has previously introduced similar bills as a procedural formality. However, this time, the proposal drew media attention and raised fears within evangelical circles. Netanyahu swiftly responded to the backlash with a tweet stating, “We will not advance any law against the Christian community.”

Juergan Buehler, President of the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem, praised Netanyahu for his efforts to strengthen Israel’s ties with Christians globally. He highlighted how the prime minister’s actions have been reciprocated with support from Christian communities. Netanyahu has cultivated strong relationships with Christian Zionist leaders, including Buehler and John Hagee, founder of Christians United for Israel (CUFI), the largest Christian Zionist organization in the U.S., which claims over 11 million members.

In 2017, Netanyahu addressed CUFI’s annual conference in Washington, thanking his “Christian friends of Israel” and calling them “the best friends on earth.” His recent assurance about the anti-proselytizing bill appears aimed at reassuring the Christian allies who support Israel, particularly white evangelicals affiliated with CUFI or similar groups. These communities often align with politicians like former President Donald Trump, who have been vocal advocates for Israel.

Netanyahu’s outreach to Christian Zionists underscores the strategic importance of maintaining strong ties with religious groups that provide political and financial backing. The proposed law, while intended to protect religious boundaries, has raised concerns about the potential impact on evangelicals and other religious minorities. The situation highlights the complex interplay between religious freedom, political alliances, and the broader implications for interfaith relations.

Source: Read the original report