NatCon’s pro-Israel conference reveals growing ideological divide on the Right

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich addressed the National Conservatism (NatCon) conference in Jerusalem, emphasizing the unique resilience of the Israeli people. “There’s something profound that Christians can learn from Zionism,” said George Deek, Israel’s Special Envoy to the Christian World, highlighting Israel’s transformation from vulnerability to self-determination.

NatCon, founded by Israeli-American political theorist Yoram Hazony, has grown into a major gathering for the so-called “New Right.” Its 2022 statement of principles rejected imperialism and globalism, advocating for national governance and economic policies that serve the general welfare. However, recent divisions have emerged, particularly as the Iran war and shifting public sentiment toward Israel challenge the unity of the movement.

The conference this year largely focused on Israel as a model for Western nations. Speakers emphasized the need to sustain the US-Israel relationship, especially among younger, disenchanted right-wing audiences. Kevin Roberts of the Heritage Foundation urged Americans to prioritize national interests, drawing parallels to Israel’s commitment to its state. Donald Trump’s Senior Director for Counterterrorism, Sebastian Gorka, framed the conflict as a battle between civilization and barbarity, aligning with the conference’s timing near the anniversary of October 7.

Despite the conference’s pro-Israel tone, internal divisions persist. Last year’s event in Washington saw debates over Israel, with some attendees expressing skepticism. This year, however, the conference appeared more unified, with carefully selected participants. While figures like Israeli Finance Minister Smotrich were featured, the absence of vocal skeptics suggests a narrowing of perspectives within the movement.

The evolving dynamics within NatCon reflect broader tensions in conservative politics. The “normiecons,” or pre-Trump Republicans, largely support Israel without question, while nationalist and populist factions grapple with defining an “America First” foreign policy. These debates underscore the complexity of aligning national interests with global commitments, a challenge that resonates with biblical themes of justice and responsibility.

As the New Right seeks to redefine its principles, the role of Israel remains central. The conference’s focus on Israel as a model for resilience and self-determination echoes Romans 12:18, which encourages seeking peace and pursuing good. Yet, the movement’s internal divisions remind us of Micah 6:8, which calls for doing justice, loving kindness, and walking humbly with God. The path forward for NatCon—and for the broader conservative movement—will require balancing these ideals with the realities of a fractured world.

Source: Read the original report