The biblical notion that Israel is "a nation that dwells alone" neither reflects reality nor serves as an ideal for the Jewish state. As Israel faces mounting international pressure and political challenges, it's worth highlighting our allies around the world. These leaders and groups support Israel and the Jewish people not merely out of aligned interests, but primarily due to shared fundamental values. Here's a selective overview of Israel's key supporters.
Prime Minister of Hungary Viktor Orban
While the Israeli-Hungarian relationship draws criticism both domestically and internationally, Orban's leadership presents a unique dynamic. He positions himself as an illiberal conservative leader, defining Hungary as an "illiberal Christian democratic state." Though his efforts to strengthen his political position often face accusations of being anti-democratic, his party has consistently secured more than two-thirds of parliamentary seats since 2010. Orban stands out as one of Israel's strongest European allies, viewing it as a conservative nation that successfully balances modernization with tradition.
Like other right-wing world leaders, Orban's position is expected to strengthen in the coming months with President-elect Donald Trump's return to the White House. He might become a key asset for the European Union: Brussels fears not only Trump's potential NATO withdrawal or ending military aid to Ukraine but also a new US-Europe trade war. This suggests his influence in Europe will likely grow in the coming years.
Dutch Coalition leader Geert Wilders
A staunch Israel supporter and committed Zionist, Wilders leads the largest parliamentary party and heads the coalition in the Netherlands (though not as prime minister). After years of warning about unchecked Islamic immigration, the Netherlands under his leadership now focuses on ensuring proper immigrant integration while stopping illegal entry. Despite not holding the highest office, Wilders remains a pivotal voice in European conservative politics.
The Evangelicals
Evangelical support for Israel represents a unique phenomenon in international relations. This global movement encompasses hundreds of millions of Christian believers, primarily Protestants, with its strongest presence in North and South America and growing influence in Africa. These believers consider their support for Israel and the Jewish people in their ancestral homeland both a religious obligation and moral imperative. Many view Israel's establishment and growth as the fulfillment of biblical prophecy. In the USA, evangelical organizations maintain powerful lobbying efforts in Washington, generating substantial political and public backing for Israel.
Their political influence in American politics cannot be overstated. Tens of millions of evangelical Americans form a crucial component of the Republican Party's base, directly influencing US foreign policy through their unwavering support for Israel. Their above-average political engagement further amplifies their impact. The movement's expansion into sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America represents a significant strategic advantage for Israel.
Czech Republic
The Czech Republic stands among Israel's most reliable European allies, with ties extending far beyond conventional diplomacy. This support runs deep in Czech history, from its first President Tomáš Masaryk's era, through its crucial support during Israel's War of Independence, and continuing to the present day. Current Prime Minister Petr Fiala maintains this tradition, recently condemning the International Criminal Court's decision to issue arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and rejecting comparisons between democratically elected leaders and Hamas terrorists.
Today, the Czech Republic spearheads European support for Ukraine, largely through its sophisticated arms industry, maintained even during the post-Soviet era. As Europe increasingly seeks military independence from the USA – both by choice and necessity – the Czech Republic's role grows more crucial. With its ongoing military modernization and focus on technological innovation for economic growth, the Czech Republic offers potential not just as an ideological ally but as a strategic partner.
President of Argentina Javier Milei
Milei's support for Israel and appreciation of Jewish culture has become remarkable. Beyond mere political backing, he demonstrates genuine enthusiasm for Judaism, regularly citing biblical passages. At his foreign minister's recent swearing-in ceremony, he discussed the weekly Torah portion of Lech Lecha ("Go Forth", Genesis 12:1) – a level of engagement with Jewish tradition that surpasses many Israeli leaders. Notably, Milei maintains close ties with Trump.
As an economics professor leading Argentina, Milei is steadily stabilizing the nation's economy, opening new possibilities for the South American powerhouse. Argentina's abundant natural resources, fertile lands, and developing shale oil industry are attracting investment under the more stable economic environment he's creating. A resurgent Argentina as a major South American economic hub appears increasingly possible. For Israel, this presents opportunities for industrial collaboration and potential access to vital resources including wheat, grains, and possibly oil.
