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Sderot – More than 100 pastors from South Africa have traveled to Israel for the annual Feast of Tabernacles organized by the International Christian Embassy of Jerusalem (ICEJ).
On Monday, 6 October 2025, the South African Friends of Israel (SAFI) announced that a delegation of 120 pastors had headed to Israel to participate in the ICEJ event.
This year’s feast, taking place from 6–10 October 2025, is historic, uniting over 1,500 Christians from more than 70 countries in Jerusalem for the largest solidarity mission to Israel since the outbreak of the war two years ago, according to SAFI.
“Amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza, this delegation of Christian leaders remains committed to faith-based diplomacy,” SAFI stated.
“Their presence signifies the steadfast support that Israel receives from Christians across the globe, standing by Israel during its times of crisis.
Focusing on the theme “Ten From Every Nation” (Zechariah 8:23), pilgrims will commence their visit by connecting with Israeli communities near the Gaza border, witnessing the resilience of citizens recovering from the devastating terrorist attacks on 7 October 2023.
“Today, the South African pastors will visit the Gaza Strip and towns such as Sderot,” SAFI noted.
“Delegates will take part in a remembrance ceremony at Sapir College to honor the 1,200 Israelis lost and the 251 hostages taken during the assault, hearing firsthand accounts from survivors.”
SAFI mentioned that the itinerary includes visits to crucial sites affected by Hamas atrocities, such as the Nova music festival grounds and the “car graveyard” near Tkuma, culminating in events in Jerusalem, including the Jerusalem March and a solidarity evening featuring Israeli President Isaac Herzog, U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee, and Fijian Deputy Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka.
“The presence of 120 South African pastors in Jerusalem this week conveys a powerful message: the church in South Africa stands united with Israel against antisemitism, terrorism, and those who seek its destruction,” said Bafana Modise, National Spokesperson for SAFI.
“As our government’s foreign policy turns increasingly hostile, these pastors represent millions of South African Christians who support Israel’s biblical and moral right to defend itself and coexist peacefully.
ICEJ President, Dr. Jürgen Bühler, described the Feast as a “message of unwavering support for Israel,” emphasizing the significance of large delegations from Western countries, including the UK, France, Norway, Canada, Ireland, and Australia.
SAFI commends these pastors for their courage and conviction in traveling to Israel during wartime, reinforcing that faith-based communities in South Africa remain a steadfast beacon of solidarity with the Jewish state.
In related news, Israel is facing accusations of genocide following IDF actions that have resulted in over 60,000 Palestinian deaths—many of whom were women and children—and is appearing to yield to international pressure to cease hostilities.
Negotiators are reportedly gathering in Egypt for talks aimed at resolving nearly two years of conflict in the Gaza Strip.
Israeli strikes on Gaza continue, with at least 24 Palestinians reported killed on Sunday.
Additionally, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on Israel to release South Africans and other nationals who were abducted during the interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla.
The Flotilla consists of over 50 humanitarian vessels aiming to deliver aid to Gaza.
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