Thousands of Christians march in Jerusalem in show of support for Israel

JERUSALEM – Thousands of Christians from around the world have filled the streets of downtown Jerusalem in a jubilant show of support for Israel.

The annual march reflects the friendly relationship between evangelical Christians and the Jewish state. It takes place every year during the weeklong Jewish holiday of Sukkot.

Thursday's event was organized by the International Christian Embassy of Jerusalem, a group that promotes ties between Israel and the world's Christian communities. The group also sponsored a conference this week that drew more than 5,000 people from nearly 90 countries, including 25 parliamentarians from various nations.

Evangelical Christians are strong supporters of Israel, providing financial help and political backing, especially in the U.S. Their hard-line views toward Palestinians make some moderate Israelis and Jews abroad uncomfortable.