Benjamin Netanyahu unveils 'new front' to defend Christians from Islamist persecution

He told heads of Christian churches and universities: "This is not just Israel's battle; I think it's our common Judeo-Christian civilisation's battle."

"You are representatives of the Christian Zionists who made Jewish Zionism possible," the PM told attendees.

He went on to describe Christian support for Israel in the US as essential to the Jewish state's "re-emergence."

Mr Netanyahu characterised the relationship as "an enormous partnership," adding: "We have no better friends."

He continued: "Faith should speak its voice, and terrorism should be confronted, not understood - confronted and defeated."

Then, the Israeli PM hailed his country's victory in a "seven-front war" - but warned that a broader ideological struggle remains.

Mr Netanyahu identified "two forces" waging a campaign against Israel and the "Judeo-Christian tradition" worldwide.

Firstly, "radical Shiite Islam" led by Iran and "radical Sunni Islam" led by the Muslim Brotherhood - which he said "permeates everything."

He highlighted the persecution of Christians "across the Middle East" and in other regions, specifically naming Syria, Lebanon, Nigeria and Turkey as places where communities face growing danger.

The Israeli leader positioned his country as uniquely protective of Christians in the region.

"One country protects the Christian community, enables it to grow, defends it, and makes sure that it thrives," he said.

"And that country is Israel. There is no other. None."

And in a landmark moment capping a year which has seen attacks on Christians worldwide, he announced that Israel is joining an initiative to establish "a united nations of countries that support Christian communities around the world".

He described those facing persecution as "beleaguered communities who deserve our help."

"Just as you are helping us, we want to help back," he told the delegation.

He indicated Israel could provide assistance "in Africa, with intel" and "in the Middle East, with a lot of means that I won't itemise".

"This is what our agenda is," Mr Netanyahu vowed. "It's a main part of our agenda, and it's going to continue with greater force and greater might in this coming year."

The Israeli PM concluded with message for 2026: "May it be a year of prosperity, peace and security for all of us, but especially for the Christian communities around the world."