A group of 120 pastors from South Africa have joined the International Christian Embassy of Jerusalem’s (ICEJ) annual Feast of Tabernacles, marking the largest South African solidarity mission to Israel since the conflict with Gaza began two years ago.

The delegation, organised by the South African Friends of Israel (SAFI), is taking part in the gathering from 6 to 10 October 2025, joining over 1 500 Christians from more than 70 nations in Jerusalem.

This year’s mission, held under the theme: “Ten From Every Nation,” began with visits to Israeli communities along the Gaza border, including Sderot and the Gaza Strip, where delegates witnessed recovery efforts following the October 7, 2023, attacks. The pastors attended a remembrance ceremony at Sapir College in honour of the 1 200 Israelis killed and 251 hostages taken and heard testimonies from survivors.

The itinerary also included visits to the sites of the Nova music festival and the: “car graveyard” near Tkuma, before moving to Jerusalem for major events such as the Jerusalem March and a solidarity evening attended by Israeli President Isaac Herzog, US Ambassador Mike Huckabee, and Fijian Deputy Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka.

Bafana Modise, National Spokesperson for SAFI, said the pastors’ presence: “sends a powerful message that the church in South Africa stands shoulder-to-shoulder with Israel against antisemitism, terrorism, and those who seek her destruction.” ICEJ President Dr. Jürgen Bühler described the gathering as: “a message of unwavering support for Israel,” noting large delegations from countries including the United Kingdom, France, and Australia.

SAFI commended the pastors for their courage in travelling during wartime, stating that South African faith communities remain a beacon of solidarity with Israel.