‘Hell to Pay’: Evangelical Leaders Respond to Iran Threat

Donald Trump takes the stage to speak to thousands of his supporters

U.S. evangelical leaders have strongly backed Israel in its conflict with Iran, citing historical ties and shared biblical values. Many have urged his administration to support Israel’s claims to Judea and Samaria. Friends of Zion Founder Dr. Mike Evans noted the vital role of evangelical support for Israel, citing nearly 30 million members.

On June 21, President Donald Trump ordered U.S. strikes on Iran's Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan nuclear facilities. Conducted with Israel, the attacks escalated regional tensions, with Iran vowing retaliation and critics denouncing the strikes as unconstitutional. Trump warned Iran against counterattacks, threatening further action if peace was not pursued.

Christians United for Israel Chairman John Hagee

Christians United for Israel Chairman John Hagee stressed Israel’s importance, referencing 9/11 and the recent Hamas attack that killed over 1,200 Israelis. Hagee said, "I do not think President Trump will allow himself to be played by Iranian negotiators or American isolationists. When it’s all said and done, I believe President Trump is willing to do what it takes to ensure Iran is defanged either by enabling our strongest ally, Israel, to defend itself or otherwise."

John Hagee delivering remarks on stage

Hagee stated that backing Israel is a matter of faith and rejected appeasement of Iran or terrorism. He urged supporters to thank Trump and push for continued U.S. support.

Donald Trump arriving for rally

Evans stated, "Jesus said, ‘You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria.'" He added, "The Trump strategy is brilliant because he’s giving Iran a way out, but he’s not taking it off the table that the U.S. will bomb Iran. Quite the contrary, he’s made it very clear that if Iran does anything to attack U.S. bases in the Middle East or Americans, they will have hell to pay."

Franklin Graham during Route 66: God Loves You tour

Franklin Graham, President of Samaritan's Purse, warned that Iran sponsors terrorism threatening Israel and the U.S. He reaffirmed the Jewish people’s historic ties to their homeland and called for prayers for peace.

Evangelist Franklin Graham shares a message of faith

Graham said, "Iran has said that they want to wipe Israel off the face of the map. They would also like to destroy America. Iran is a sponsor of terror … Israel has been forced into defending itself and needs our prayers."

Tracy Harden speaking with Franklin Graham

Graham added, "All of us who believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and trust Him should ‘Pray for the peace of Jerusalem’ (Psalm 122:6). Pray that this can be resolved quickly."

Franklin Graham speaking during RNC

Graham concluded, "The U.S. government has supported Israel since it became a nation, and for that support to continue is extremely important. It’s the only democracy in the Middle East, the only place where elections are held. No one else in that part of the world has the kinds of freedoms that Israelis have."

Jennifer White covers U.S. politics & news for content partner Modern Newsstand LLC.