A significant development occurred last month in Har Bracha, a town in the West Bank’s Samaria region. The Israel Guys, a Christian Zionist organization, opened a major visitors center. This organization has dedicated nearly two decades to bringing over 5,000 volunteers from 35 countries to aid in the development of the Land of Israel.
Mission and Activities
Joshua Waller, CEO of The Israel Guys, explained the organization’s purpose as providing firsthand experience of the biblical heartland’s flourishing state. He mentioned how media often portrays the area as conflict-ridden. The organization aims to change that narrative. “We live here, we see the people who live here, and then we tell everyone what is actually happening,” Waller shared in a Fox News Digital interview.
Addressing Misconceptions
According to Waller, many consider Jews residing in Judea and Samaria as part of a radical group. He invites visitors to the center to dismantle these misconceptions. “You will see that it is a fake narrative built by the international community,” he asserted. The aim is to present the reality, encouraging international visitors to form their own opinions.
Volunteer Programs
The Israel Guys offers various volunteering initiatives:
- The Heartland Experience – A 10-day tour combining sightseeing, volunteer activities, and resident interaction.
- The Grape Harvest Trip – A two-week program during late summer and early fall supporting farmers.
- The Men’s Pruning Trip – A springtime program focused on vineyard maintenance.
- Zion Ops – A four-week program for young adults aged 18-30.
- Day Visits – Two-hour tours of Har Bracha.
Historical Context and Development
In 2004, Tommy Waller, Joshua Waller’s father, visited Israel. He met Nir Lavi, founder of Har Bracha Winery, with whom he discussed fulfilling a biblical prophecy involving Samaria’s vineyards. Inspired, Waller Sr. moved with his family from Tennessee to Har Bracha, leading to the establishment of HaYovel, a nonprofit uniting Christian volunteers with Israeli farmers.
In 2013, the organization countered anti-Israel rhetoric by launching “The Joshua & Caleb Report” TV show, now a weekly podcast. Five years ago, they rebranded as The Israel Guys, intensifying their advocacy efforts.
Achievements
The Israel Guys have expanded significantly, with over 20 team members and assisting in the development of approximately 120 farms. Volunteers work alongside local farmers, contributing to the region’s agricultural sustainability.
Recent Initiatives
Following a tragic October 7, 2023, attack in which 1,200 Israelis were killed, the organization launched Operation Ittai, raising $3.85 million to supply tactical gear to vulnerable communities.
The group also attracted attention by bringing American cowboys to assist Israeli farmers during a shortage caused by the reserve duty call-up. Waller clarifies misperceptions about Christians in Israel, refuting claims that they aren’t welcome in Israel.
Safety and Peace
“Israel is the safest place for Christians in the entire Middle East,” Waller stated. The country’s Christian population is reportedly growing, further highlighting its commitment to religious harmony.
The organization includes volunteers across Christian denominations, such as Catholics, Protestants, Evangelicals, Mormons, Amish, and Mennonites. The new center will support Israeli farmers, offer lectures on Israel and Zionism, and serve as a communal space.
Waller emphasized Israel’s role as a peace partner and called for nations to embrace biblical values. He warned against antisemitism fueling efforts against Israel, pledging that Israel would resist, while The Israel Guys continue their informational advocacy.
“We are witnessing the realization of biblical prophecies here,” Waller remarked. “The transformation is amazing, and volunteers are part of actualizing these ancient words from the Bible.”
Amelie Botbol, a freelance field reporter based in Tel Aviv, contributed to this report regarding Israel-related news.