There are moments when an attack tells you more than a compliment ever could.
When Francesca Albanese, the United Nations special rapporteur for the Palestinians, chose to target CFOIC Heartland more than a year ago with accusations of “war crimes”, “genocide,” and “crimes against humanity,” she revealed something important: our work in Judea and Samaria matters.
Organizations that are irrelevant are ignored. Organizations that are making a difference are attacked.
In a major legal development, the U.S. District Court for the District of Colorado ruled on May 15 that Albanese cannot evade service in the defamation lawsuit filed against her by Christian Friends of Israeli Communities US (CFOIC Heartland). The court determined that she was properly served through email and social media, and she now has 21 days to respond before a possible default judgment may be entered against her.
For years, Albanese has become known internationally for inflammatory anti-Israel rhetoric and repeated accusations against those who stand with the Jewish state. But this time, she crossed a line by falsely accusing our organization of supporting atrocities and international crimes.
These accusations are completely false.
CFOIC Heartland has spent decades building bridges between Christians and Jews and supporting vulnerable communities throughout Judea and Samaria and across Israel. We help families under threat, elderly residents, children with special needs, and communities living on the frontlines of terror and uncertainty.
Yet instead of condemning terrorism or defending innocent civilians, Albanese chose to attack those providing humanitarian support and standing courageously with Israel.
And that should tell all of us something.
She targeted us because she understands the power of this movement. She understands that when Christians around the world stand with the people of Israel and support the biblical heartland, it changes reality on the ground. It strengthens communities. It gives families hope. It declares that the Jewish people are not alone.
Her goal was clear: to intimidate us into silence.
- She wanted us to stop.
- She wanted supporters to become afraid.
- She wanted this movement to fold under pressure.
But the opposite must happen.
This is the moment to stand stronger than ever before.
Now is not the time to retreat. Now is the time to deepen our commitment to the people of Judea and Samaria and to the biblical truth that the Jewish people have every right to live in the heartland of Israel.
If those who oppose Israel are investing so much effort into attacking organizations like CFOIC Heartland, then we know our work is making an impact.
That is why we are asking you today not only to pray, but to act.
The other side is organized, loud, and relentless. We must be even more committed, more courageous, and more united.
We are on the frontlines, and we will remain on the frontlines.
Not because it is easy.
But because it is right.
As Scripture reminds us:
“A false witness will not go unpunished, and one who speaks lies will perish.” — Proverbs 19:9
Thank you for standing with us, with Israel, and with the truth.
Shmuel Junger
Executive Director