Catholic Scholars Argue Zionism Incompatible with Catholicism

Experts say Christian Zionism is a growing problem even in Catholic institutions due to Israeli funding and propaganda efforts.

Feb. 1, 2026 at 9:47am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A panel of Catholic scholars discussed why the ideology of Zionism, which maintains Jews have a 'right' to the Holy Land, is incompatible with Catholicism. They argued that Christian Zionism is a growing issue, with Israel funding pastors to spread pro-Israel propaganda, even infiltrating Catholic institutions. The scholars cited a recent statement from Latin Patriarchs in the Holy Land rejecting Zionism and criticized U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee's suggestion that to reject Zionism is to hold that God has 'broken' his covenant with the Jews.

Why it matters

This debate highlights the growing tensions between Catholic teachings and the ideology of Christian Zionism, which is gaining influence even within Catholic circles. It raises questions about the role of religion in geopolitics and the appropriate relationship between the Church and the state of Israel.

The details

The panel, organized by journalist Matt Gaspers, included Professor Matthew Tsakanikas, retired Lt. Col. Gary Taphorn, and LifeSiteNews journalist Patrick Delaney. They argued that Christian Zionism is a 'flood of false prophets' funded by Israel to 'drown out the Catholic voice' and spread propaganda, even penetrating Catholic institutions. The scholars also cited a recent statement from the Latin Patriarchs in the Holy Land rejecting Zionism and Huckabee's response defending it.

  • The panel discussion took place on Friday, February 1, 2026.
  • The Latin Patriarchs' statement rejecting Zionism was issued recently.

The players

Matt Gaspers

Founder of Veritatis Vox and organizer of the panel discussion.

Matthew Tsakanikas

Professor who discussed the growing problem of Christian Zionism in Catholic institutions.

Gary Taphorn

Retired Lt. Col. who participated in the panel discussion.

Patrick Delaney

LifeSiteNews journalist who took part in the panel.

Mike Huckabee

U.S. Ambassador to Israel who suggested rejecting Zionism means God has 'broken' his covenant with the Jews.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Christian Zionism is a 'flood of false prophets targeting to drown out the Catholic voice,' noting that Zionist groups are now even penetrating Catholic institutions to spread their propaganda.”

— Matthew Tsakanikas, Professor

What’s next

The debate is likely to continue, with the Catholic Church and pro-Israel Christian groups vying for influence within Catholic institutions and the broader public discourse.

The takeaway

This controversy highlights the complex relationship between religion, geopolitics, and the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It underscores the need for the Catholic Church to carefully navigate these sensitive issues and maintain its theological integrity in the face of external political pressures.