A significant development took place last month with the inauguration of a major visitor center in Har Bracha, West Bank. This center was opened by The Israel Guys, a Christian Zionist organization focused on contributing to the development of Israel through international volunteer efforts. Joshua Waller, CEO of The Israel Guys, founded initially as HaYovel, emphasized their goal to showcase the vibrant and peaceful life in the biblical heartland, contrasting with common media portrayals of conflict.
Waller stated, “We live here, witness the daily life, and share that with the world. Our task is to enrich this experience with thousands of internationals visiting to see the reality themselves.”
US Ambassador Huckabee recently criticized certain Israeli settlers for extreme actions on the West Bank.
The Israel Guys have initiated several volunteer programs to engage international visitors. These include the Heartland Experience, which combines touring with volunteer work, the Grape Harvest trip for aiding farmers during late summer and early fall, and the Men’s Pruning trip in early spring. Additional offerings include Zion Ops, a four-week program for young adults, and shorter Day Visits to Har Bracha.
In 2004, Tommy Waller, Joshua’s father, visited Israel where he met Nir Lavi, creator of the Har Bracha Winery, and learned of his vision based on the Prophet Jeremiah’s words. Tommy established HaYovel in 2007 to bring Christian volunteers who work alongside Israeli farmers.
The Israel Guys also counter anti-Israel narratives with media initiatives like The Joshua & Caleb Report TV show and its evolution into a weekly podcast. The organization rebranded in 2018 to strengthen advocacy and support for Israel.
Currently, The Israel Guys have over 20 team members and have aided in the development of approximately 120 farms. Volunteers partake in various agricultural activities such as planting trees and harvesting crops. Following the tragic October 7, 2023, events, The Israel Guys initiated Operation Ittai, raising $3.85 million for defensive community supplies.
Anti-Israel protests recently took place outside the United Nations in New York City.
Efforts also involved American cowboys assisting local farmers as many called up reservists. Addressing misconceptions about Christians’ presence in Israel, Waller explained that narratives suggesting Christians would fare better in Arab countries are untrue. He stressed that Israel is the safest place for Christians in the Middle East, with a growing Christian population.
The volunteer base is diverse, with participants from various Christian sects including Catholics, Protestants, and Mormons. The newly established center aims to support Israeli farmers, offer educational programs, and facilitate communal gatherings.
Waller urged for alignment with biblical values, expressing hope for a future enriched by peaceful cooperation. He concluded, “The Bible foretells that this desolate land will flourish like the Garden of Eden. We are witnessing this transformation, and it’s inspiring to see volunteers be a part of this prophecy’s realization.”
Amelie Botbol, a freelance field reporter based in Tel Aviv, covers news related to Israel.