New York, NY – Harriet P. Schleifer, Chair, and William C. Daroff, CEO, of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, issued the following statement:
“The Conference of Presidents welcomes Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to the United States ahead of his record-breaking fourth address to Congress and his meetings with President Biden and Vice President Harris at the White House.
“Prime Minister Netanyahu arrives in America at a challenging time for American and global Jewry. In the United States, we have witnessed the most significant surge in domestic antisemitism since World War II. Over 100 hostages, including several Americans, remain in captivity as the brave men and women of the IDF continue to combat terror in Gaza in the aftermath of Hamas’s horrific invasion of southern Israel. Additionally, over 60,000 Israelis remain displaced from their homes in the north due to the threat of Hezbollah attacks. Iran, which recently attacked Israel with hundreds of drones and ballistic missiles, is progressing its nuclear program at a dangerous pace while sowing discord and antisemitic sentiment here in America.
“Prime Minister Netanyahu’s visit under these circumstances underscores the robust and enduring alliance between the United States and Israel.
“We greatly appreciate the efforts of House Speaker Mike Johnson, Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer, Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, and Minority Leader Hakeem Jefferies for their leadership in facilitating Prime Minister Netanyahu’s upcoming congressional speech and for their work in maintaining bipartisan support for the US-Israel partnership.
“We also thank President Biden for his robust support for Israel since October 7th, including his unprecedented decision to utilize American troops to directly defend Israel from Iranian ballistic missiles and one-way attack drones.
“We look forward to hearing the Prime Minister’s remarks this Wednesday and hope that his meetings with President Biden and Vice President Harris are fruitful in progressing Israel’s war aims, hostage negotiations, and the fight against global antisemitism. Prime Minister Netanyahu’s visit is a testament to the shared democratic values, mutual respect, and mutual interests that underpin our bilateral relationship. The Conference of Presidents remains committed to supporting the alliance between the United States and Israel and the promotion of peace, security, and prosperity throughout the Middle East.”
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The Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations is the recognized central coordinating body representing 50 diverse national Jewish organizations on issues of national and international concern.
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