Over 1,000 Christian Leaders Gather in Jerusalem for Friends of Israel Conference
The Friends of Israel Ambassadors Conference opened on the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem, bringing together over 1,000 Christian leaders and influencers from 117 countries to mark three years since the October 7 attacks in solidarity with Israel.
The Friends of Israel Ambassadors Conference opened on Tuesday, October 6, at the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem, in close cooperation with the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs. More than 1,000 Christian leaders, community heads, and influencers from 117 countries gathered to express deep solidarity with the State of Israel and the Jewish people on the third anniversary of the October 7 attacks. The participants included around 200 young adults aged 18 to 29 from various Christian communities worldwide.
Opening Remarks by Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar opened the emotional event on the Mount of Olives, addressing the leaders and influencers who traveled to Israel ahead of the anniversary. "Our soldiers and security forces stand at the front line of the fight against terror. You stand beside us at the front line of the fight for the truth," Sa'ar told the audience. "Your voice matters. When lies are told about Israel, speak the truth. When Jews are attacked, fight antisemitism. Make your voice heard and do not stand idly by."
Sa'ar emphasized the deep historical bond between the Jewish people and Christian communities, announcing a significant upcoming initiative: "I have instructed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to begin preparations for the year 2030, which will mark 2,000 years since the baptism of Jesus. From here, from the Mount of Olives, I call on Christians around the world: Come to Israel. Come to Jerusalem. Come to the Galilee. Come to the Jordan River. Walk in the land of the Bible... Take one message home from this holy mountain: Stand by the truth. Stand by Israel."
The 'Here Am I' Award Presented to Erin Molan
During the opening events, Dr. Mike Evans, founder of the Friends of Israel organization, presented the prestigious 'Here Am I' Award to Australian journalist and broadcaster Erin Molan. The award was given in recognition of her courage, personal sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to the State of Israel and the Jewish people.
Since October 7, Molan has become one of the most prominent global voices supporting Israel and combating antisemitism. In December 2024, she was dismissed from her prime-time role at Sky News Australia after facing repeated death threats against herself and her young daughter. Despite heavy personal and professional costs, Molan chose to continue fighting for the truth, establishing an independent media platform to share the stories of hostages and Israeli society with audiences worldwide.
Ambassador Dan Orion: 'They Will Become Our Ambassadors'
In an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the Foreign Ministry's civil diplomacy efforts, Ambassador Dan Orion, head of civil diplomacy at the ministry, highlighted the immense importance of this year's conference. Orion noted a significant expansion in participants and partners compared to previous years, including notable delegations from South Africa, a country where anti-Israel public sentiment is particularly challenging.
"This is so important, especially given the situation there and the stance of problematic elements," Orion explained. "It is crucial to show that not everyone thinks this way in South Africa, and that other voices are willing to come, speak, support Israel, and become our ambassadors." The ambassador stressed the critical timing of the visit during the October 7 anniversary week, noting that global broadcasts are reaching tens of millions of viewers.
A Packed Schedule: From the President's Residence to the Davidson Center
The conference program features a broad series of significant meetings and events. Participants are scheduled to meet with Israeli President Isaac Herzog at the President's Residence and visit Yad Vashem to examine the link between Holocaust remembrance and modern antisemitism. The central event at the Davidson Center brings together around 2,000 attendees, including freed hostages, bereaved families, wounded soldiers, Holocaust survivors, and international representatives. The conference also includes tours of the Nova festival site and meetings with survivors.
