Israel Appoints New Envoy to Strengthen Christian Relations

JERUSALEM, Israel: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government has taken a significant step by appointing an envoy to enhance relations with the Christian community. This move, applauded by various Christian leaders, focuses on establishing better ties with Christians globally.

Ambassador George Deek, in an interview in Jerusalem, emphasized the importance of this role. “We see the ethnic cleansing of Christians in the region, with their numbers dwindling from 20% to less than 2% of the Middle East’s population,” Deek pointed out. “Communities that once flourished have now vanished.”

Israel boasts around 300 churches, twice the number from 1948. The Christian population has increased from 34,000 back then to over 180,000 today. Deek aims to build strong bridges between Israel and Christian leaders by presenting a more comprehensive narrative of Israel’s story.

According to the Central Bureau of Statistics, as of December 2025, the Christian population in Israel was about 184,200, making up 1.9% of the nation’s total. This population grew by 0.7% over the previous year.

Deek, Israel’s former ambassador to Azerbaijan, stated that many know Israel solely for its Jewish identity, without recognizing its societal diversity. The decision to appoint an envoy to the Christian world reflects the historic connection between Christians and the birthplace of Christianity. It also mirrors shared biblical values and Israel’s commitment to inclusivity for all denominations.

Israel is unique in appointing a special envoy to the Christian world. “This shows our appreciation for Christian support and a long-term dedication to Christian-Jewish relations,” stated Dr. Jürgen Bühler from the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem (ICEJ). The organization’s Jerusalem base operates in 185 nations and recently convened a summit on antisemitism with over 3,000 participants worldwide.

Amid recent antisemitic incidents, Deek highlighted that hatred beginning with Jews can endanger other minorities. Israel stands as a safe haven for such groups, offering free practice of faith without fear. “We witness the Christian population’s disappearance in Gaza under Hamas,” Deek said, emphasizing Israel’s safe environment for religious minorities.

Recent attacks on Christian symbols and individuals have been unequivocally condemned by Israeli leadership, including Prime Minister Netanyahu. Instances such as the desecration of a cross and an attack on a nun in Jerusalem led to the punishment of the perpetrators.

Deek remains committed to counteracting claims of mistreatment of Christians in Israel. “I aim to bring Christians to visit Israel, not for political reasons, but to connect with their faith and values,” he stated.

In fostering these connections, Israel continues as the guardian of holy Christian sites. “We want to reconnect Christians to their roots and shared Biblical values,” Deek added.