Albania’s Parliament unites left and right to launch a pro-Israel caucus, joining 60 nations in faith-based support for Jerusalem.
In a moment of unity rare in Balkan politics, the Albanian Parliament on November 10, 2025, officially launched the Albanian Parliamentary Israel Allies Caucus, aligning the nation with a growing global movement of over 60 pro-Israel legislative caucuses coordinated by the Israel Allies Foundation (IAF).
The new caucus, co-chaired by MP Romina Kuko (Socialist Party) and MP Gazmend Bardhi (Democratic Party), represents a remarkable bipartisan front rooted in Albania’s historic friendship with the Jewish people and its principled defense of Israel’s legitimacy and security.
“It is a great honor to mark another chapter in our long-standing friendship and cooperation,” said MP Romina Kuko, noting the symbolism of unity across party lines. “This caucus embodies Albania’s shared national commitment and the excellent relations between our two peoples.”
During the launch ceremony in Tirana, Members of Parliament signed a formal resolution pledging to:
- Stand with Israel and oppose antisemitism in all its forms
- Reject boycott and divestment movements (BDS) targeting Israel
- Recognize Jerusalem as the eternal capital of the Jewish people
“This initiative reflects our shared values and deep historical ties,” declared co-chair Gazmend Bardhi. “Albania’s rescue of Jews during World War II remains a proud symbol of our humanity. Through this platform, we renew our commitment to peace and human dignity.”
Albania’s Enduring Moral Legacy
Albania holds a unique place in Jewish history — the only European country that ended World War II with more Jews than before it began, after thousands of Albanian families sheltered refugees from Nazi persecution. That courage continues to inspire the country’s modern diplomacy.
“Albania has a remarkable legacy of protecting and honoring the Jewish people, and this caucus builds on that moral tradition,” said Josh Reinstein, President of the IAF. “Faith-based diplomacy unites leaders across nations around shared Biblical values. At a time when standing with Israel is more critical than ever, Albania is sending a powerful message.”
Growing Diplomatic Support for Israel
Leo van Doesburg, Executive Director of IAF Europe, praised Albania’s growing diplomatic maturity:
“In recent years, Albania has shown increasing support for Israel at the UN — often abstaining from biased anti-Israel resolutions. The creation of this caucus proves that Israel brings together Albania’s political spectrum around shared democratic values.”
The launch followed high-level meetings in Tirana with Albania’s Prime Minister, Foreign Minister, and former top diplomat Edmond Panariti, reinforcing Tirana’s desire for deeper bilateral engagement in trade, security, and technology.
The new caucus will cooperate with the Israel Allies Foundation’s global network of 64 caucuses and 1,600 legislators, promoting legislation rooted in Judeo-Christian values, democracy, and faith diplomacy.
From Jerusalem to Tirana, this alliance affirms that moral courage and biblical friendship remain the bedrock of Israel’s international partnerships — and Albania has once again placed itself firmly on the right side of history.
