Israel's ambassador to the United States, Sallai Meridor, said Wednesday that Israel and the free world are under attack by Iran, with a combination of fanaticism, terrorism and nuclear capability posing the most serious threat since the 1930s.

"We must prevent this nightmare," Meridor said at the "Night to Honor Israel" event, part of the second annual Christians United for Israel summit in Washington, D.C. "The world must act and act now."

Meridor said Israel would take any steps necessary to ensure that Iran does not develop a nuclear bomb. "All options are on the table, and no matter what, they will not be able to get a nuclear weapon," he said.

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CUFI is a grassroots organization that serves as a national umbrella for all pro-Israel Christians groups in America. The organization was established in 2006 by Texas Pastor John Hagee, who decided the time had come to create a national movement focused based on the support of Israel. Directors from all 50 states were present at Wednesday's event.

"It's 1938 all over again," said Hagee. "Iran is Germany, Ahmadinejad is Hitler and he is talking about killing the Jews. The only way to prevent a nuclear war is to make certain it never starts."

The summit urged an economic boycott of Iran, calling Congress to pass the Iran Counter Proliferation Act, which would impose stricter sanctions Iran and levy new sanctions on nations that assist Iran's nuclear program.

Hegee also had harsh words for former president Jimmy Carter, whose recent book comparing Israel?s policies in the West Bank with Apartheid has stirred bitter controversy in the United States and abroad.

"Israel has an enemy in America called Jimmy Carter," he said, calling on the former president to "disclose how much money the Carter Center receives from anti-Israel sources in the Middle East."

"People ask me why we support Israel," said Hagee. "The answer is because we are Bible-believing Christians. It's the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth."

"There are two ways to live life: 'the Torah way' and 'the wrong way,'" he added.

Meridor ended his speech with a pledge that Jerusalem would remain Israel's eternal, united capital.

"I wish all my Israeli friends could be here tonight to get strength, love, care and dedication from you," said Meridor. "I have two words for you: 'Toda Raba! [thank you very much].'"