3 things to know about Israel's relationship with Christians

2. Israel's restrictions on evangelism

Israeli law permits the sharing of religious beliefs, but there are restrictions that apply to all faith groups. For example, one cannot offer or promise material benefits or financial inducements to persuade someone to change their religion. Evangelizing to a minor under 18 without the consent of a parent is also prohibited. 

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has in the past condemned bills proposed by ultra-Orthodox factions in the Knesset seeking to criminalize evangelism amid concerns from American Evangelicals. 

Christians evangelizing to Jews has been a sensitive topic in Israel, as the Jewish Telegraphic Agency notes, prompting much debate among Christian leaders about whether Christian evangelism to Jews is appropriate in Jerusalem. 

In 2020, Israel’s Cable and Satellite Broadcasting Council removed the U.S.-based Evangelical Christian station GOD TV from the Israeli cable television provider HOT, with a council leader telling media the action was taken because the network "appeals to Jews with Christian content" when it was supposed to be "targeting the Christian population."

The GOD TV station for Israel denied that it violated the terms. Although other ministry networks like Daystar and Middle East Television had no problems broadcasting in Israel, JTA notes that both networks broadcast in English and don't tout proselytizing.