From CBN News, 11/4/11 -
BUDAPEST, Hungary -- Israel finds itself more and more under attack by a worldwide campaign to delegitimize the Jewish state. But a new organization is mobilizing support for Israel among legislators and members of parliaments around the globe. (continued below).
One church rally in Budapest was a sign of a more visible and passionate support for Israel among some people in Europe and other parts of the world.
At the rally, pro-Israel parliamentarians joined more than 12,000 people at Faith Church, the largest evangelical church in Europe. They came to celebrate Israel and show their support for an undivided Jerusalem.
Transforming Passion to Legislative Action
A new organization, called the International Israel Allies Caucus Foundation, is working to transform that passion into legislative action. In cooperation with Faith Church, they brought together the heads of its caucuses from around the world to Budapest.
"It helps them understand what legislative and political initiatives are being taken in other countries, and it inspires them to return to their country and do the same thing," he said.
The foundation has established 20 caucuses worldwide, with 10 more in the works. It represents an unprecedented effort to marshal support for Israel among legislators on a global scale
"When we look at the Middle East, Israel is the only democratic country there, and Israel is the only country that shares our values," said Hannu Takkula, a European parliament member from Finland.
Along with shared values with Israel, many say Western civilization also shares a common enemy: radical Islam.
'Canary in the Coal Mine'
"Israel is the canary in the coal mine warning us take care of our own business. But it's also very important that we support Israel because they are part of our civilization," Wim Kortenoeven, a member of the Dutch House of Representatives, said.
One of the largest caucuses in the U.S. is the Israel Caucus.
"I think this is the time for allies of Israel to step forward, countries around the world that want to support a fellow democracy. And I, as one congressman within the U.S. Congress, will be one of those voices saying this should be the U.S. policy," said Rep. Doug Lamborn, R-Colo., chairman of the U.S. caucus.
During the conference, representatives from five continents issued a joint press release urging "the international recognition of Jerusalem as the undivided capital of Israel."
With a vote looming in the U.N. Security Council for a Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital, these legislators represent an organized and growing opposition in defense of Israel to counter the prevailing diplomatic winds.
"It has been a wonderful and excellent thing to behold because when there are parliamentarians from different parts of the world who support Israel, there is hope for their nations..." said Rev. Kenneth Meshoe, a member of the South African parliament.
"As you know," he added, "the scriptures are saying blessed is the nation who's God is the Lord and besides that the Lord blesses the nations that blesses Israel."