In JFNA Speech, Herzog Says Goodbye to Biden and Wishes Trump Success

At the Jewish Federations’ General Assembly (JFNA) in Washington, DC, Israeli President Isaac Herzog expressed gratitude for outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden’s support and congratulated President-elect Donald Trump on his recent election victory. Herzog’s address, his first U.S. visit since the tragic October 7, 2023, Hamas attack, centered on both Israel’s security and the unity of the Jewish people worldwide.

Herzog praised Biden as a “dear friend” and highlighted the strong relationship they shared since Herzog’s term began in 2021. Despite a sometimes tense relationship between Biden and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Biden consistently showed his solidarity with Herzog, especially following the October 7 massacre, marking a symbolic connection between the two leaders. Herzog is scheduled to meet with Biden to discuss key issues, including Israel’s ongoing efforts to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas and address the threats posed by Hezbollah.

The Israeli president also conveyed his appreciation for President-elect Trump’s dedication to Israel, noting their recent conversation focused on security and hostages. “President Trump reiterated his love for Israel,” Herzog said, calling the newly elected leader a “champion of peace and cooperation” who will work toward regional security and prosperity.

Herzog’s speech resonated with many in the audience as he addressed the “startling wave of antisemitism” rising across the globe, especially in the U.S. “The civilized world cannot tolerate a mob seeking out Jews, and we will not allow this to be normalized,” Herzog declared. He attributed much of this antisemitism to the influence of Iran and its network of global proxies. “For many years now we have seen the engine behind the modern-day antisemitism: the Iranian regime and its allies,” Herzog asserted, calling it an “empire of evil” spreading hatred worldwide through proxies and online propaganda.

Herzog’s remarks underscored his deep commitment to global Jewry, stressing that antisemitism is a shared struggle. He highlighted his initiative, “Kol Ha’Am” (Voice of the People), which seeks to address pressing issues within the Jewish community worldwide. The program, led by CEO Shirel Dagan-Levy, will bring together 150 Jewish council members from around the world to strengthen Israel’s connection with the Jewish Diaspora and tackle challenges facing Jewish communities.

Reflecting on the October 7 attacks and their impact, Herzog stated, “Every day that goes by, we realize that October 7 is way beyond the State of Israel.” Herzog’s poignant words, along with his commitment to unity, offered comfort to a community seeking solidarity in troubled times.

The JFNA General Assembly, featuring panels on Jewish identity and responses to rising antisemitism, continues until Tuesday, bringing together Jewish leaders and advocates for a shared commitment to security, resilience, and unity.

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