This past September, I had the privilege of attending the inaugural Africa-Israel Parliamentary Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. It was an event of immense importance, both for Israel and for the future of its relationships with the nations of Africa. The gathering saw over 25 African nations come together to express their support for Israel and to deepen the bonds between our countries through faith-based diplomacy. As the Director of Heartland Initiative, I was honored to participate in a panel discussion alongside Erik Selle, Head of the Conservative Party in Norway, and Aviva Klompas, Co-Founder & CEO of Boundless Israel and author of Stand-Up Nation. Our panel focused on the critical role that Christian support for Israel plays, particularly in the regions of Judea and Samaria.

Representing Israel alongside me were two esteemed members of the Knesset, Sharren Haskel and Amit Halevi, who embodied Israel’s spirit and determination throughout the summit. In addition, we were joined by Special Envoy to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Fleur Hassan-Nahoum, who is also a senior advisor to Heartland Initiative. Fleur’s attendance further underscored the growing importance of building diplomatic bridges between Israel and Africa, and her insights were a crucial component of the discussions.

A Summit with Purpose

The Africa-Israel Parliamentary Summit was held at a pivotal time for Israel. As international criticism continues to mount—particularly from nations like South Africa, which has taken legal action against Israel in the International Court of Justice—this gathering of African lawmakers served as a powerful counter-narrative. More than 40 African parliamentarians signed a resolution in support of Israel, reaffirming Jerusalem as the undivided capital of the Jewish State, and calling for deeper diplomatic, economic, and security ties between Africa and Israel.

This resolution was not just symbolic. It was a demonstration of the strong faith-based diplomacy that is growing across Africa, particularly among Christian leaders who recognize the Biblical significance of Israel. As Erik Selle noted in his opening remarks, the summit sought to “build on the Abraham Accords” and to pursue “peace, progress, and prosperity” for both Africa and Israel. This message was amplified by the voices of the African lawmakers, many of whom belong to the Israel Allies Caucuses in their home countries and are dedicated to passing pro-Israel legislation.

Christian Support for Israel’s Biblical Heartland

During the panel discussion, I had the opportunity to address a crucial topic: the importance of global Christian support for Israel, particularly for the contested regions of Judea and Samaria. These areas, often referred to as the “West Bank,” are the very heartland of Biblical Israel. They are where Abraham walked, where King David ruled, and where the prophets spoke their timeless messages. Yet today, these regions are caught in the crosshairs of international disputes, with many attempting to sever them from Israel.

I emphasized to the panel and the audience, “80% of the Bible takes place in the heartland of Israel. By calling it the ‘West Bank,’ not only are you erasing the Jewish connection to the land, but also the Biblical one. It’s as if you are tearing the pages out of your Bible.” The response to this statement was profound. Many of the African legislators in attendance were Christian leaders who deeply understood the spiritual connection between their faith and the land of Israel. This shared understanding became a key theme of the summit, as we explored how Christian support for Israel could help secure the future of Judea and Samaria under Israeli sovereignty.

Special Envoy Fleur Hassan-Nahoum also spoke to this, highlighting the strategic and spiritual importance of Judea and Samaria. As a senior advisor to Heartland Initiative and a prominent voice in Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Fleur underscored the need for global Christian communities to continue their unwavering support for Israel in these contested regions, stressing that their advocacy is vital to maintaining Israeli control and applying Israeli law.

Honorable Representation of Israel

Throughout the summit, Israel was honored by the presence and participation of Knesset Members Sharren Haskel and Amit Halevi, who represented the nation with distinction. Both MKs are deeply involved in promoting Christian-Jewish relations and advocating for the integration of Judea and Samaria into the broader fabric of Israel. Their speeches emphasized the importance of Israel’s partnership with Africa in combating the rising tide of Islamic extremism and promoting peace through faith-based alliances.

MK Haskel, who co-chairs the Knesset Christian Allies Caucus, spoke passionately about expanding the Abraham Accords to include African nations. Her proposal for the “Queen of Sheba Accords” focused on creating new avenues for economic, security, and cultural cooperation between Israel and Africa. MK Halevi, in turn, emphasized the spiritual connection that binds Israel and Africa, reminding attendees that our shared values can create a foundation for lasting partnerships.

The Role of Faith-Based Diplomacy

A recurring theme throughout the summit was the power of faith-based diplomacy. Many of the African lawmakers who attended the event are deeply committed Christians who see their support for Israel as an extension of their faith. They recognize the Biblical roots of the Jewish connection to the land and understand that supporting Israel is not just a political act—it is a moral and spiritual obligation.

As Israel continues to face diplomatic challenges from opponents seeking to undermine its legitimacy, the support of Christian allies across Africa becomes ever more critical. The summit reaffirmed that faith-based diplomacy, rooted in shared beliefs and values, can be a transformative force in the global arena. This type of diplomacy offers something deeper than traditional alliances—it provides a spiritual connection that transcends politics and economics.

The Future of Israel-Africa Relations

Looking ahead, the future of Israel-Africa relations is bright. The summit laid the groundwork for stronger diplomatic and economic ties, with a specific focus on shared security interests and combating Islamic extremism. For African nations, partnering with Israel offers a path to progress, innovation, and stability. Israel, as the “Startup Nation,” has much to offer Africa in terms of technology, agriculture, and security expertise.

The resolution signed by over 40 African legislators is a testament to the growing support for Israel across the continent. It condemns Islamic terrorism and reaffirms the need for deeper cooperation between Israel and African nations. This is a significant victory for Israel, particularly in light of the ongoing efforts by nations like South Africa to undermine its legitimacy.

At Heartland Initiative, our mission is to build bridges between Israel and its global friends, and to integrate Judea and Samaria as an inseparable part of Israel. The success of the Africa-Israel Parliamentary Summit is a clear indication that these goals are not only achievable but are already in motion. The growing partnership between Israel and Africa is not just about politics—it is about shared values, faith, and a commitment to peace and prosperity.

Conclusion: Moving Forward with Strength and Unity

The Africa-Israel Parliamentary Summit was a monumental event, one that will have a lasting impact on the relationship between Israel and Africa. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of faith-based diplomacy and the critical role that Christian support plays in securing Israel’s future—particularly in Judea and Samaria.

As we look to the future, it is clear that the partnership between Israel and Africa will continue to grow. With the leadership of figures like Special Envoy Fleur Hassan-Nahoum, MK Sharren Haskel, and MK Amit Halevi, and the unwavering support of Christian allies across the continent, we are building a future of peace, progress, and prosperity.

At Heartland Initiative, we are proud to be part of this journey. We will continue our work to strengthen the bonds between Israel and its global partners and to ensure that the regions of Judea and Samaria remain an integral part of the Jewish State.

For those reading this, I invite you to join us in this important mission. Together, we can build a stronger, more united future for Israel and for all those who stand with her.

Let us move forward with strength, unity, and a shared commitment to peace.