Portugal Launches Pro-Israel Parliamentary Caucus, Strengthening Global Support

On Monday, Portugal became the latest country to join the growing network of pro-Israel parliamentary groups with the launch of the Portugal Parliamentary Israel Allies Caucus. This addition brings the total number of Israel Allies Caucuses worldwide to 54, amplifying a global movement aimed at fostering political support for Israel through faith-based diplomacy.

The Israel Allies Foundation (IAF), which coordinates these caucuses, has been a key player in this movement since its inception in 2004 with the establishment of the Knesset Christian Allies Caucus in Israel. The network expanded rapidly, starting with the formation of the Congressional Israel Allies Caucus in the US in 2006, which remains the largest bipartisan pro-Israel caucus in the US Congress. Today, the movement spans six continents, offering parliaments worldwide a platform to strengthen their diplomatic ties with Israel.

A Response to Global Challenges

The launch of the Portuguese caucus comes in the wake of the October 7 Hamas attacks on Israel and will be co-led by Liana Reis of the Social Democratic Party and Pedro Frazão of the Chega Party, signaling a broad, cross-party consensus in Portugal to deepen ties with Israel.

Pedro Frazão, one of the co-chairs of the caucus, emphasized the significance of Israel’s existence as a safeguard for the Jewish people worldwide: “Israel stands as a guarantor of security and dignity for Jews globally,” he said. “Its existence embodies strength, resilience, and the unwavering commitment to self-defense.”

Madelena Barata, the caucus director, echoed this sentiment, stressing the urgency of building international networks that defend Israel and support its right to security in a volatile global landscape.

Strengthening Ties Between Israel and Portugal

At the launch event in Lisbon, Deputy Foreign Minister MK Sharren Haskel attended as a representative of Israel, praising the initiative as a significant testament to the strong, enduring bond between Israel and Portugal. “This caucus amplifies the voices of parliamentarians who stand with Israel, strengthening our bilateral relationship and shared values,” she said.

This visit marks Haskel's first international trip since assuming her new role, emphasizing the importance of global diplomatic engagement for Israel.

Leo van Doesburg, Executive Director of IAF Europe, described the expansion of these caucuses as a “diplomatic Iron Dome” for Israel. He noted that with Portugal’s inclusion, 20 European countries now host an Israel Allies Caucus, helping to counter anti-Israel rhetoric and promote fact-based dialogue in the political sphere.