Faith
Israel appoints first special envoy to strengthen Christian ties
Israel has appointed its first official special envoy to the Christian world. The move is aimed at strengthening ties with believers globally and building bridges after regional tensions.
Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar selected George Deek, Israel’s first Christian ambassador, for the role. Deek’s background in the Orthodox Christian community and his diplomatic experience make him a notable choice.
“The State of Israel attaches great importance to its relations with the Christian world and with its Christian friends around the world,” stressed Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar.
Deek said on social media that he sees the appointment as a duty rooted in his childhood in church. He said he hopes to deepen mutual respect between Israel and Christian denominations.
“From the Sundays of my childhood sitting beside my father in church to this new diplomatic role, I carry with me the faith and values that shaped my life and my community,” Deek wrote.
Faith Facts
- George Deek is the first Christian in Israel’s history to serve as a senior ambassador and now as special envoy.
- Christians account for approximately 1.9 percent of Israel’s population, totaling more than 184,000 citizens.
- The appointment reflects Israel’s effort to formalize and strengthen its bond with Christian allies worldwide.
We celebrate this bridge-building effort and pray it leads to greater unity and protection for those who stand for truth in the Holy Land.