US Ambassador Resolves Visa Delays for American Christian Groups in Israel

A diplomatic dispute over visa delays and denials for American Evangelical Christian groups visiting Israel was resolved following intervention by U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee. The issue arose when Israel's Interior Ministry began independently investigating Christian organizations rather than following the Ministry of Religious Affairs’ longstanding recommendations, causing significant bureaucracy and visa denials. Huckabee publicly condemned the visa process changes and threatened reciprocal restrictions on Israeli citizens seeking U.S. visas, prompting urgent meetings involving the Prime Minister’s Office, Interior Ministry, and the U.S. embassy. Israeli attorney Calev Myers, representing Christian groups, confirmed that a resolution was reached to restore a streamlined and efficient visa process. The resolution was supported by all parties, ensuring that Evangelical Christian organizations—key supporters of Israel—will receive the necessary visas without undue burdens. Israeli officials emphasized that there was no intent to undermine the freedom of Christian workers and volunteers entering Israel.