Held in Jerusalem, Israel – April 27-28
The inaugural JNS International Policy Summit, held at the Waldorf Astoria in Jerusalem on April 27-28, brought together political, religious, and media leaders to discuss Israel’s future. Against the stunning backdrop of Jerusalem, the event focused on Israel’s security, international diplomacy, and the internal challenges following the October 7th massacre by Hamas terrorists.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu opened the summit with a powerful message on Israel’s security: “Iran’s nuclear pursuit isn’t just a regional issue; it’s a threat to the entire world. Israel will not stand by as Iran seeks the means to destroy us.” Netanyahu’s words set the tone for the event, emphasizing that Israel’s security is non-negotiable.
Mike Huckabee, U.S. Ambassador to Israel, echoed Netanyahu’s sentiments, reaffirming the unshakable bond between the U.S. and Israel. “Israel’s survival is not up for negotiation,” Huckabee said.
The panels that followed delved into defense strategy, with Itamar Marcus, Director of Palestinian Media Watch, presenting a sobering overview of Palestinian incitement. Brigadier General (Res.) Amir Avivi and Colonel (Res.) Richard Kemp explored Israel’s defense readiness, offering expert analysis on military strategy and public diplomacy.
One of the more engaging sessions centered on the integration of Israel’s Charedi community. Rabbi Yehoshua Pfeffer, Executive Director of the Iyun Institute and Head of the Charedi Israel Division at the Tikvah Fund, led a discussion on how religious observance and national service can coexist. His comment about Charedi soldiers being the “real warriors of peace” added a touch of humor and insight, resonating with the audience.
Dr. Paul Brody, President of the ZOA Long Island and Queens Chapter, also attended the summit and spoke with fellow participants about the importance of unity between Israel’s secular and religious sectors. “Israel’s security depends on unity—especially in times like these,” he remarked, highlighting the need for cooperation in the face of external and internal challenges.
In a poignant moment, Miriam Fuld, widow of the late Ari Fuld, was honored for her tireless advocacy for Israel’s security. Her presence was a reminder of the sacrifices made by many in the name of Israel’s defense and the enduring legacy of those who have given their all for the Jewish state.
Sid Rosenberg, the acclaimed radio host, delivered a deeply personal and emotional address during his stage appearance. Reflecting on his upbringing in Brooklyn, he humorously recalled his less-than-religious Jewish household, admitting, “I had chicken parmesan on the third night of Passover.” But the horror of October 7th changed him forever. “That day, I became a different Jewish boy,” he shared, his voice heavy with emotion. “I couldn’t watch a football game; all I could think about were the bodies at the kibbutz and the hostages taken. It destroyed me.” For Rosenberg, the attacks were a wake-up call, sparking a deep shift in his identity and commitment to the Jewish people.
Rosenberg, whose Israel trip was co-sponsored by One Israel Fund, didn’t hold back in his critique of the political climate and the failure of some to recognize the dangers faced by Israel and the Jewish people. “Some people want to kill me, and there are liberal Jews defending those people. You’re more dangerous to my religion than Hamas is,” he boldly stated. “It’s us against the world,” he said. “We need to stand together, regardless of our differences.” Rosenberg’s passionate plea underscored the urgency for Jewish solidarity, reminding the room that the survival of the Jewish people depends on collective action, not just words.
Mark Levin, the conservative commentator, emphasized the importance of strengthening U.S.-Israel ties, while David Milstein, Senior Advisor to U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee, provided an insider’s perspective on the ongoing efforts of U.S. diplomacy.
The summit concluded with Alex Traiman, CEO of JNS, thanking the participants for their invaluable contributions. “The discussions held here are just the beginning,” he said. “There’s much more work ahead, and we can’t afford to stop now.” This sentiment resonated deeply with the attendees, reinforcing the idea that the work of securing Israel’s future is ongoing and requires continued unity and action.
The JNS International Policy Summit was a resounding success, not only because of the impactful discussions but because it united people with a shared purpose: ensuring Israel’s future. When united, the strength of the Jewish people is unstoppable.
For more coverage, visit www.JNS.org.
By Shabsie Saphirstein
