What it is about
Former President Donald Trump will be the featured speaker at the Israeli-American Council’s (IAC) National Summit in Washington, D.C. next week. The IAC confirmed the news on Friday morning, while also noting that President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris had been invited to speak but declined the invitations.
Why it matters
The IAC National Summit is recognized as America’s largest pro-Israel conference, drawing nearly 4,000 participants from the Jewish and Israeli community. This critical conference takes place as both nations unite to honor the victims and heroes of last year’s tragic events and acknowledge the unwavering commitment of Israel’s defenders.
Highlights of the Summit
The Summit will prominently feature programs focused on the events of October 7, including tributes to the heroes, survivors, and families of the hostages. Key events on the agenda include a salute to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), a panel discussing IDF combat ethics, and special appearances by former hostages freed from Hamas.
Notable speakers and personalities
This year’s Summit will host an array of distinguished speakers: Andrei Kozlov, a former Hamas hostage; His Royal Highness Reza Pahlavi, the Crown Prince of Iran; U.S. Special Envoy Ambassador Deborah Lipstadt; notable politicians such as Representatives Elise Stefanik and Ritchie Torres; Michael Herzog, Israel’s Ambassador to the U.S.; philanthropist Dr. Miriam Adelson; and many others including academics, athletes, and influencers.
Uniting in Support of Israel
Elan Carr, IAC CEO and former U.S. Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism, emphasized the importance of community unity during these significant times. He stated, “This year’s Summit provides a critical opportunity for our community to unite with focus and purpose. Together we will embrace the families of the fallen and those taken hostage, salute the IDF heroes who defend Israel day and night, support the students standing up for Israel on campus, and recognize those fighting for Israel’s global standing. Most importantly, as we approach the first anniversary of the horrific massacre of Oct. 7, we will unite as one people, in one voice, to declare: Am Yisrael Chai!”
This story was first published on jpost.com.