A recent survey conducted by the Jewish People's Policy Institute (JPPI) found that a vast majority of Israeli Jews support President Trump’s proposed Palestinian relocation from Gaza to other countries, chiefly Jordan and Egypt.
The survey indicates that 52% of Israeli Jews believe that this is a practical plan worth pursuing, and an additional 30% say they support the idea in principle, even if they doubt its feasibility. In total, over 80% of Israeli Jews endorse the proposal in some form.
These numbers do not come as a complete surprise, Trump’s idea has been in circulation for years among his most dedicated constituency – American evangelicals. Evangelical leaders have long made it clear to Trump that they consider Israeli sovereignty and security as paramount. Their unwavering support has played a critical role in shaping U.S. Israel policy, from the recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital to the Abraham Accords.
However, beneath this political alliance lies a growing concern: Israel support among younger American is waning. Last August JPPI published American Evangelicals, Jews, and Israel, which highlights this trend. The study, by Dr. Shlomo Fischer and myself, notes that although White conservative evangelical support of Israel remains strong, Younger evangelicals and evangelicals of color, with more liberal political views, are less likely to share this strongly pro-Israel stance. The study stresses the need for new strategies to maintain evangelical support for Israel in the future.
If this trend continues, it could pose a serious long-term challenge for Israel, which has long relied on American evangelical advocacy in Washington. Historically, evangelical support has been a crucial counterweight to the increasing criticism of Israel by some mainline Christian denominations and progressive political movements. Without a dedicated effort to engage young evangelicals, this support could erode, leading to weaker political backing for Israel in the United States.
This is why it is imperative to reverse the trend by fostering stronger connections between young evangelicals and Israel. One of the most effective ways to do this is through firsthand experience – educational trips to Israel that expose young evangelicals to the country’s history, challenges, and moral dilemmas. As has been successfully demonstrated in the Jewish world with programs like Birthright, nothing cements bonds like walking the land, meeting the people, and seeing the complexities up close.
In contrast to abstract political debates or social media rhetoric, these trips allow young evangelicals to see Israel beyond the headlines. They witness the country’s pluralistic society, its innovation, and its struggle for security firsthand. They meet Israelis from all walks of life – Jewish, Christian, Druze, and Muslim – who share their personal stories and challenges. They walk the streets of Jerusalem, visit the borders of Gaza and Lebanon, and engage in discussions about peace and security with Israeli and Palestinian voices alike.
Furthermore, engagement with Israel should not be limited to political and religious discussions alone. Many young evangelicals are deeply involved in humanitarian work, social justice issues, and community service. These shared values provide an opportunity to expand their connection with Israel in ways that harmonize with their personal convictions. Highlighting Israel’s contributions to disaster relief, medical innovation, and human rights initiatives can strengthen the affinity young evangelicals feel toward the Jewish state.
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Young evangelicals who visit Israel return home with a greater appreciation for its struggles and a stronger commitment to its future. This, in turn, translates into continued political and moral support for the Jewish state within American evangelical circles. Given that evangelical support has been instrumental in shaping U.S.-Israel relations, ensuring that the next generation remains engaged is not just a preference, it’s a necessity.
Israeli Jews recognize that Israel faces existential threats and that strong alliances – especially with American Christians – are indispensable. Trump has heard this message loud and clear from evangelicals, and Israel must make sure that it continues to resonate with the next generation.
Now, it is up to the broader pro-Israel community to ensure that young evangelicals do not drift away. Investing in educational programs, Israel trips, and sustained outreach is the key to maintaining and strengthening this vital alliance for generations to come. The need is urgent, but the solution is clear: we must act now to secure the future of this indispensable partnership.
Dr. Dov Maimon is a senior fellow at the Jewish People Policy Institute (JPPI).