The outgoing Israeli ambassador to the United States said this weekend that 15 months of war against Hamas in Gaza and Iran’s proxies in Lebanon and elsewhere have unequivocally proven that Americans stand with Israel despite international opprobrium and often violent protests worldwide.
“Despite all the noise and protests, after 15 months of war, my conclusion is clear: the American people stand with us,” said Ambassador Michael Herzog in an address to hundreds of Christian students in Washington, D.C. “They understand right from wrong and recognize what is at stake.”
In one of his final speeches as ambassador, Herzog cited the “unprecedented political and diplomatic support” from both sides of Congress, and singled out the American pushback against the “blood libels” at the ICJ and ICC, where Israel has been accused of war crimes.
Looking forward, Herzog told the students that amid the struggle to stop Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, there is a real opportunity under the incoming administration to reach a landmark peace accord with Saudi Arabia. “I believe the door is open, and this could be a game-changer,” he said.
The event took place at the Museum of the Bible, where Herzog and his wife Shirin were presented with a copy of the Afghan Liturgical Quire, the oldest Hebrew book in the world. This medieval manuscript, dating back to the 8th century, includes prayers, poems and the oldest known Passover Haggadah.
“The Afghan Liturgical Quire is one of the most cherished treasures in the museum’s collection, and it speaks to the Jewish people’s continuity, resilience and excellence,” said Steve Green, the museum’s co-founder and chairman. “You leave your position knowing that the U.S.–Israel relationship is stronger and more resilient than ever,” he added.
“Our Christian friends are essential in the fight against antisemitism,” Herzog told the students, who advocate for Israel on their campuses. “Your advocacy, rooted in faith and the love of life, is crucial in this battle.”
“This is a clash of civilizations,” he added. “What the barbarians did to our people on Oct. 7 cannot be explained merely in political terms. There is a deeper element to this. Our partnership with the Christian community is vital in confronting this type of war.”
Rivka Kidron, co-founder of Passages and former adviser to Israel’s premier, said, “Now, more than ever, we are seeing our Christian friends step up, whether by visiting Israel to show solidarity or by standing with Jewish students on North American campuses.”
The organization, which has been dubbed the “Christian Birthright,” has brought over 11,000 Christian students from North America to Israel over the last decade.