US religious freedom ambassador-designate Mark Walker made a powerful commitment to interfaith unity during his visit to Jerusalem and the Western Wall on Monday. The former North Carolina congressman, pending Senate confirmation, outlined an ambitious agenda focused on promoting religious freedom globally and combating religious persecution.

Speaking exclusively to The Jerusalem Post, Walker revealed his top priorities as religious freedoms envoy. He emphasized the urgent need to advocate against blasphemy and anti-conversion laws throughout the Middle East and Asia, while also working to expose and eradicate the slaughter of Christians by Islamic terrorist organizations operating in Africa.

At a Waldorf Astoria meeting following his Western Wall visit, Walker engaged in substantive discussions with Rabbi Dovid Hofstedter, founder of Dirshu Torah-learning programs. Their dialogue centered on the alarming global rise of antisemitism and the critical responsibility of both faith and government leaders to champion religious freedom and interfaith understanding.

Walker indicated his intention to partner with the Israeli Foreign Ministry to advance global coexistence and freedom of religion initiatives. He praised Israel’s diverse religious landscape—encompassing Jewish, Christian, Muslim, and Druze communities—as a living testament that diversity and democracy can successfully coexist.

Before praying at the Western Wall, Walker addressed concerns about divisions within right-wing Christian circles regarding Israel. The former pastor, who maintains strong connections to the evangelical Christian community, characterized the situation as more of a “splinter” than a “schism,” asserting that the overwhelming majority of evangelicals consider Israel to be a friend.

Walker’s visit coincided with ongoing efforts to resolve the Israel-Hamas conflict. He praised President Trump, US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee, Jared Kushner, and US Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff for their dedication to achieving peace and securing a ceasefire.

During his trip, Walker met with American families of hostages held by Hamas since the October 7, 2023, massacre. He pledged to advocate for the release of those still in captivity, demonstrating his commitment to humanitarian concerns alongside religious freedom issues.

Western Wall Rabbi Shmuel Rabinowitz welcomed Walker’s visit, emphasizing that “The Kotel is a place of prayer for all nations.” He explained the site’s profound spiritual importance while noting its inextricable connection to Judaism and the Jewish people. Importantly, Rabinowitz stressed that Jews don’t claim a monopoly on God, rejecting the exclusivist vision promoted by radical groups.

“We can live next to one another,” Rabinowitz stated, calling for collective efforts to “reject those that try to bring hate and terrorism” into the Old City’s sacred quarters.