After meetings with Israel's Minister of the Interior and assistance from Prime Minister Netanyahu, U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee announced that the issue regarding visas for American Evangelical organizations has been resolved.
The problem began in January when changes to the visa processing system for Christian organizations caused significant bureaucratic and financial challenges. Upon his arrival in Israel, Ambassador Huckabee discovered that these changes led to delays and additional costs, creating a burden with paperwork. Although an initial meeting with the Minister of Interior seemed to settle the matter, organizations continued to experience difficulties. Huckabee then informed the Prime Minister’s Office about how these issues could harm relations between Israel and the American evangelical community.
Christian organizations sought only a return to an efficient process rather than special treatment. Attorney Calev Myers, representing around 150 Christian groups in Israel, played a key role in presenting this request. The Prime Minister’s Office supported the resolution along with the Minister of the Interior.
“I am delighted to report that the issue has been resolved to everyone’s satisfaction and the strong support that Israel enjoys from American evangelicals will continue,” stated US Ambassador Mike Huckabee. “I’m convinced the Interior Minister was not fully aware of the change being imposed and I’m grateful he has personally intervened to completely restore the long-standing process,” added Huckabee.
“American Christians are some of Israel’s strongest supporters, and the resolution of this issue among friends is a welcome outcome,” said Huckabee.