Faith, Courage, and Israel: What the CUFI Summit Teaches the Next Generation

In a powerful discussion by Christians United for Israel (CUFI) UK, Alex and Alistair reflect on their experience at the CUFI Washington Summit and share vital insights on the growing movement of Christians standing with Israel across college campuses in America. They also address pressing issues closer to home, including the troubling anti-Israel rhetoric at Glastonbury, controversial political statements from UK ministers, and French President Emmanuel Macron’s push to recognize a Palestinian state. This article unpacks these key topics and highlights why it is essential for Christians and allies to stand firm and bold for Israel’s cause.

Empowering the Next Generation: The CUFI Washington Summit Experience

The recent CUFI Washington Summit was a remarkable gathering that brought together hundreds of Christians, Jewish community members, and young people—including 300 high school and 200 college students—from across the United States. This event showcased the inspiring work being done on campuses where Christian and Jewish students are forming strong networks of support, standing shoulder to shoulder against rising anti-Semitism.

This movement is especially important as universities and colleges become battlegrounds for the future. Anti-Semitism on campuses like Harvard and Yale has become a serious concern, and initiatives like CUFI’s empower students to actively defend Israel and Jewish peers. The hope is to replicate this model in the UK, encouraging Christian and Jewish students to unite and confront hatred with courage and love.

The Forgotten Hostages and the Aftermath of October 7th

A deeply moving aspect of the summit was hearing from families affected by the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict—particularly those still enduring the pain of hostages in captivity. Despite the world’s silence, around 50 Israeli hostages remain held, a reality that cannot be ignored when discussing the conflict.

October 7th marked a horrific day described as a modern-day genocide, with Hamas committing atrocities reminiscent of Nazi horrors. Even a German foreign minister likened Hamas to Nazis after witnessing the aftermath. Yet, these brutal facts often fade from public consciousness, underscoring the importance of continuously sharing these stories and advocating for justice and the hostages’ release.

The summit reinforced the biblical mandate to remember history’s darkest moments, such as the Holocaust, to prevent repetition. Just as educating youth about the Holocaust is vital, so too is raising awareness about current threats and standing with Israel in love and truth.

Confronting Anti-Semitism: The Bob Vylan Controversy at Glastonbury

While in America, news emerged of disturbing anti-Semitic rhetoric at Glastonbury, involving rapper Bob Vylan. His public calls for “death to the IDF” and chants like “from the river to the sea, Palestine must be free” were broadcast nationally, signaling a dangerous normalization of hate speech.

Bob Vylan’s rhetoric is not merely opposition to a military force but a call for the destruction of the Jewish state. The IDF, Israel’s Defense Forces, represent all Israeli adults—doctors, lawyers, and ordinary citizens conscripted to defend their homeland. To call for their death is to call for the elimination of an entire people.

This episode highlights how some on the militant left adopt Islamist rhetoric and narratives, contributing to the Islamization of Western societies and spreading anti-Semitism under the guise of activism. Groups like Palestine Action, recently outlawed for violent acts, further exacerbate tensions by targeting synagogues and Jewish businesses, perpetuating hatred disguised as “peaceful activism.”

As Christians, there is a delicate balance: we are called to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us, yet we must also confront and resist evil firmly. Israel’s military actions are defensive, aimed at protecting innocent lives and dismantling terrorism, contrasting starkly with the genocidal aims of Hamas.

France, the UK, and the Threat of Recognizing a Palestinian State

Turning to international politics, French President Emmanuel Macron has pushed for France—and sought support from the UK and Canada—to recognize a Palestinian state. This move, timed around a postponed UN summit, threatens to undermine Israel’s sovereignty and contravenes biblical warnings against dividing the land of Israel.

Recognition of a Palestinian state is not a neutral act. It rewards Palestinian entities that have historically supported terrorism, failed as custodians of the land, and refuse to recognize Israel’s right to exist. Such a state would likely be an apartheid regime, hostile to Jews and incompatible with democratic values.

Thankfully, there is strong resistance to Macron’s plans. Reports indicate significant pushback from the United States, which warns of economic and political consequences if France proceeds. The UK appears hesitant to follow suit, and there are rumors Macron may even skip the summit altogether.

As believers, we are reminded of God’s promises: “I will bless those who bless you, and I will curse those who curse you.” Dividing Israel’s land, especially Jerusalem and its holy sites, is a direct affront to these promises and carries serious spiritual consequences.

Standing Boldly for Israel in the UK

While the US model of lobbying on Capitol Hill involves direct meetings with lawmakers, the UK’s approach currently relies more on petitions, emails, and local meetings with Members of Parliament. Christians in the UK are encouraged to be bold—contact their MPs, pray for leaders, and actively participate in campaigns like CUFI’s “No State for Jew Hate.”

The recent remarks from a UK minister suggesting Israel “get its house in order” before receiving support reflect a conditional and troubling stance that undermines unconditional friendship with Israel. True alliance means standing with Israel regardless of external pressures or propaganda, recognizing that Israel’s actions are fundamentally about defense and survival.

Conclusion: A Call to Action and Prayer

Our times demand unwavering support for Israel and the Jewish people. From empowering the next generation of Christian and Jewish students, confronting rising anti-Semitism, to opposing political moves that threaten Israel’s legitimacy, every believer has a role to play.

Israel is a beacon of democracy and a force for good in a complex and hostile region. Supporting Israel is not just a political choice—it is a biblical mandate and an act of faith. Let us stand boldly, pray fervently, and act decisively for Zion’s sake.