RJC Abroad: Arrival in Israel, Shabbat in Jerusalem

Friends, I am writing to you from Jerusalem, the eternal, undivided capital of the Jewish people, where our RJC delegation arrived yesterday morning, departing from Poland’s death camps to the vibrancy of Israel–quite literally from ashes to life.

We had the incredible honor of meeting with Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at his office. As he entered the room, the Prime Minister joked, “I see it’s the usual suspects!”, a testament to our organization’s robust access, influence, and lifelong friendships with world leaders. We spent over an hour with the Prime Minister discussing major issues, including efforts to win the war against Hamas, rescue the remaining 59 hostages, and counter Iran’s malign activities in the Middle East. Bibi commented that he was incredibly energized by the intensity of the RJC’s efforts in support of Israel.

Yesterday evening, we welcomed the Sabbath in the Old City at the Kotel, and were hosted for dinner at the amazing home of Pamela and Aba Claman, daughter and son-in-law of former RJC National Chairman Sam Fox (z”l). The Claman’s organization “Thank Israeli Soldiers” does absolutely fabulous work in support of IDF soldiers, some of whom joined us for Shabbat. At dinner, we heard powerful and emotional stories of heroism from Mayer, Itai, Hadas, and Ido, all servicemembers in the IDF. These lions of Israel are the lifeblood of this country and words will never be able to express our deep appreciation, respect, and love for them. They are on the front lines against pure evil, securing the Jewish homeland for generations to come. As Ido said, “Others before me fought for Jewish existence, why shouldn’t I?”

This afternoon, we were joined by America’s newly-confirmed Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee and his wife Janet. We congratulated and thanked Ambassador Huckabee for his lifelong support of the Jewish state, and had a wide-ranging conversation over lunch at the David Citadel. The Jewish community is incredibly lucky to have such a strong supporter of Israel in this position, and we know Ambassador Huckabee will serve with distinction as part of President Trump’s Pro-Israel Dream Team.

It is a critical time to be here in Israel, and I’m beyond proud that the RJC is front and center in these important conversations. More soon from Jerusalem, including our participation in the Jewish News Syndicate (JNS) International Policy Summit and travels to both the North and South of Israel.

Shabbat Shalom.

Matt Brooks
RJC CEO