Israel’s Foreign Ministry plans to host 8,000 Christian influencers by 2026 to improve the country’s image abroad, according to reports.
Israel Seeks to Counter Negative Perceptions
The Israeli Foreign Ministry plans to bring 8,000 Christian influencers on all-expenses-paid trips to Israel by 2026, as reported by “Israel Ha-Jom” on May 4th. Participants will receive training on daily life in the country.
The project aims to “remove young people from the influence of (anti-Israel) discourse in social media,” encouraging them to promote positive opinions about Israel upon their return home.
Strengthening Ties with Pro-Israel Religious Communities
This initiative follows the appointment of a special envoy for Christian affairs in late April, marking another significant step by the Israeli Foreign Ministry to strengthen relations with what “Israel Ha-Jom” describes as the religious community most supportive of Israel.
Shifting Global Sentiment Towards Palestinians
A 2025 Pew Research Center study reveals that in over half of the 24 countries surveyed, a majority of adults hold negative views of Israel and its government.
While historically supported by Western nations like the US, UK, and Germany, Israel currently faces predominantly critical reception in Europe and parts of Asia, stemming in part from actions during the war in Gaza and accusations of war crimes and genocide.
US Sympathy Shifts Towards Palestinians
Recent research indicates a change in US attitudes, with more Americans expressing sympathy for Palestinians (41%) than for Israelis (36%) for the first time since 2001, according to a February Gallup poll. Prior to the Gaza conflict, the proportions were nearly reversed.
Cost Not a Factor in Image Campaign
The Israeli Foreign Ministry believes that visits to the country are the most effective way to present Israel to foreign audiences. Despite high costs and logistical challenges, the program will proceed.
In 2025, approximately 6,500 opinion leaders from over 80 countries visited Israel at the government’s invitation – 12 times the average number from previous years.
