Its statement of purpose is; "to provide a national association through which every pro-Israel church, parachurch organization, ministry or individual in America can speak and act with one voice in support of Israel in matters related to Biblical issues."
Ambassador Dan Gillerman, Pastor John Hagee and Senator Joseph Lieberman (I-Conn.) spoke with live music interludes.
The summit hosted the founder John Hagee, Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and US Vice President Mike Pence as speakers.
[26] Christians United for Israel (CUFI) has faced various criticisms and controversies from religious groups, political commentators, and advocacy organizations.
Critics argue that this theological framework prioritizes political events over justice and peace for all people in the region, including Palestinians, and distorts Christian ethics.
Some also accuse CUFI of supporting Israel primarily as part of a broader agenda to hasten the Second Coming of Christ, rather than out of a genuine concern for Jewish welfare.
[27][28] CUFI has been criticized for its unconditional support of Israeli government policies, regardless of actions seen as violations of international law or human rights, such as settlement expansion and the treatment of Palestinians.
Additionally, CUFI’s opposition to a two-state solution and its rejection of land concessions to Palestinians has been seen by some as undermining efforts for long-term peace in the region.
Jewish organizations such as J Street have expressed concerns over CUFI's positions, accusing them of promoting policies that exacerbate tensions rather than fostering reconciliation.
[29][30] CUFI's founder, John Hagee, has faced criticism for making controversial statements that have been interpreted as anti-Catholic, anti-Islamic, and antisemitic.
One widely cited example is Hagee's claim that Adolf Hitler was fulfilling God's will by helping to return Jews to Israel as part of a divine plan, a comment for which he later apologized after widespread condemnation.
[31] Hagee's statements emphasizing the exclusivity of Christianity for salvation have also raised concerns, particularly among interfaith organizations and Jewish leaders, who worry that CUFI's support for Israel may be linked to proselytizing efforts, despite the group's official stance against such activities.