Then President Trump delivering a keynote address at the 2019 IAC Summit (video clip)

In a huge display of support for the Jewish and Israeli community, former President Donald Trump is once again set to headline the Israeli-American Council's (IAC) National Summit next week in Washington, D.C., as a featured speaker. The IAC confirmed Trump's participation on Friday morning, setting the stage for what is anticipated to be the largest pro-Israel gathering in the United States, drawing nearly 4,000 attendees, including students, thought leaders, and policymakers.

The IAC extended invitations to President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, showcasing the event's commitment to bipartisan dialogue. However, the focus remains on uniting the community around shared values, resilience, and the memory of October 7—a day marked by tragedy but also by unparalleled heroism. Both the President and Vice President declined the invitation.

A Summit of Unity, Resilience, and Remembrance

This year’s IAC National Summit will be more than just a conference; it will be a poignant gathering to honor the victims and heroes of the October 7 massacre, almost one year since the tragic event. The agenda will feature a comprehensive lineup of programs and tributes, including:

  • Tributes to Heroes and Survivors: Emotional commemorations will honor the bravery and sacrifices of those impacted by the attacks, including a moving salute to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), whose soldiers stand as a bulwark against terrorism and hostility.
  • Panels on IDF Combat Ethics: Experts will explore the high moral standards upheld by the IDF, highlighting the integrity and restraint that define its operations even under the most challenging circumstances.
  • Former Hostages and IDF Rescuers: Attendees will have the rare opportunity to hear firsthand accounts from former hostages who endured unimaginable hardships before being rescued by the daring efforts of the IDF. Notably, Andrei Kozlov, a former hostage freed in a dramatic IDF operation, will share his harrowing experience and the relief of his rescue.

A Star-Studded Lineup of Speakers and Influencers

The Summit will feature a distinguished roster of speakers, underscoring the broad support for Israel across diverse sectors. Notable participants include:

  • Reza Pahlavi, Crown Prince of Iran: His presence signals a profound solidarity between the pro-Israel and pro-democracy movements, offering a unique perspective on regional dynamics and the shared struggle for freedom.
  • Ambassador Deborah Lipstadt: As the U.S. Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism, Lipstadt’s insights will underscore the ongoing fight against rising antisemitism and the critical need for vigilance.
  • Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY) and Rep. Ritchie Torres (D-NY): Their bipartisan presence emphasizes the shared commitment to Israel’s security and the fight against antisemitism in the U.S. Congress.
  • Dr. Miriam Adelson, Oracle CEO Safra Catz, and Alan Dershowitz: These influential figures will offer their perspectives on philanthropy, business, law, and the relentless advocacy for Israel on the global stage.
  • Noa Tishby and Montana Tucker: With their powerful voices and influence on social media, these cultural icons will bring attention to Israel’s narrative, countering misinformation and advocating for truth.

Other luminaries, including athletes, actors, and activists, will also join the Summit, making it a multifaceted event that transcends political, cultural, and social boundaries.

Elan Carr’s Call to Action: A United Community Stands Strong

Elan Carr, CEO of the IAC and former U.S. Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism, captured the spirit of the Summit, declaring, “Over the last year, Israel and the Jewish People have been at war on the battlefield, on college campuses, in the media, and on social networks. This year's Summit provides a critical opportunity for our community to unite with focus and purpose.”

Carr emphasized the importance of solidarity, particularly as the first anniversary of the October 7 massacre approaches. “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!”

The IAC National Summit promises to be an inspiring testament to the enduring spirit of the Jewish and Israeli communities, a beacon of unity and resilience in a world fraught with challenges. As participants gather to honor the past and forge a stronger future, this event will undoubtedly reinforce the ties that bind the pro-Israel community together, with an unwavering commitment to justice, truth, and the enduring strength of Am Yisrael Chai.

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