Once completed, this South American country will become the 6th in the world and the third in Latin America to establish a full embassy in the Holy City
Paraguay’s President Santiago Peña shakes hands with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during the UN General Assembly in September 2023, where Peña pledged to move his country’s embassy back to Jerusalem, marking a significant step in diplomatic ties. Photo Credit: Israeli PMO
In what will amount to a major diplomatic victory for Israel, Paraguayan President Santiago Peña will visit the Jewish State next week for the reopening of his country’s embassy in Jerusalem. Peña’s visit will include an address to the Knesset on Wednesday, December 11, followed by a ceremony with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Israeli President Isaac Herzog. The embassy will officially open on Thursday, December 12, at the Har Hotzvim high-tech park in Jerusalem.
This embassy reopening was a key campaign promise of Peña’s 2023 election. He had previously expressed support for Israel’s decision to establish Jerusalem as its capital, saying, “The State of Israel recognizes Jerusalem as its capital. The seat of the parliament is in Jerusalem, the president is in Jerusalem. So, who are we to question where they establish their own capital?” The opening, initially scheduled for November 2023, was delayed due to the conflict with Hamas.
This marks the second time Paraguay’s embassy will be reopening in Jerusalem. In May 2018, then-Paraguayan President Horacio Cartes made history by opening his embassy in Jerusalem, becoming just the third country to do so—just nine days after President Trump’s landmark move and five days after Guatemala. But only five months later, his successor, President Mario Abdo Benítez reversed the decision, citing a lack of consultation and the potential harm to Paraguay’s neutral stance on the Israel-Palestinian conflict. In response, Israel closed its embassy in Paraguay. Fast forward to September 2024, Israel reopened its embassy in Asuncion, the capital of Paraguay, in a deeply emotional ceremony. Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana affixed a Mezuzah, a special one that once belonged to Sivan Elkabetz and Naor Hasidim, two Israeli victims of the horrific October 7 Gaza attacks. For the opening ceremony in Jerusalem, both Sivan and Naors’ fathers will be in attendance.
Once the move is completed, Paraguay will join the United States, Guatemala,Kosovo, Honduras and Papua New Guinea who have already moved their embassies to Jerusalem. Other countries have recognized Jerusalem as Israel’s eternal capital and pledged to move their embassies shortly, including the African nations of Liberia, Malawi, Congo, and Equatorial Guinea, Argentina in South America and theCzech Republic in the EU. The island nations of Nauru, Vanuatu, and Fiji recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, with the latter promising to move its embassy by the end of 2024. Additionally, EU countries such as Hungary and Slovakia have recognized Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and have opened embassy branches in the city, although their main offices remain in Tel Aviv.
Sponsored by Rockets Into Roses: Discover the powerful art of an Israeli Hero living on the Gaza border, who transforms rocket fragments into stunning, one-of-a-kind masterpieces. His Art, his Jewelry, and items of Biblical Value owned by US presidents and many world leaders, not only symbolizes resilience but directly supports charities aiding Israelis in the Gaza Envelope.
To sponsor our next article or newsletter and have your business seen by thousands of our American pro-Israel subscribers and beyond, please contact us at info@guidedtoursofisrael.com
Nosson Shulmanis a journalist andLicensed Tour Guidein Israel specializing in Biblical tours. To allow tourists to experience Israel during the Corona era, he created the new hit Israel tour video serieswhich brings Israel to the home of viewers by simulating actual tours. To check out his free sneak preview tour videos, click here.To view sample tour itineraries or to inquire about private tour opportunities with a personalized itinerary on your next trip to Israel,click here.
By Nosson Shulman: Licensed Tour Guide of VIP Israel Tours & Authentic Virtual Tours
Rockets into Roses creator Yaron Bob, who lives close to the Gaza border, creates mind-boggling artwork using rockets that Hamas fires at him.
Artist Yaron Bob (carrying a Katusha rocket in the center image) creates spectacular artwork with his own hands that one must see to believe.
“They shall beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks(Isaiah 2: 4)”
In the calm of his art studio, surrounded by both finished and unfinished works, Yaron Bob, an artist from Moshav Yated, is deep in the creative process when the sharp sound of the Code Red alarm suddenly fills the air. With just seconds to react—maybe 7 or 12—he runs toward shelter, his heart racing. As rockets fly overhead, heading for a nearby target, Bob doesn’t panic. Instead, amidst the chaos, he sees something else: in the destruction around him, he finds inspiration for his next piece, a powerful mix of ruin and rebirth that only his unique vision could capture.
Rockets fired by Arab terrorists in the Gaza Strip that fell near Yaron’s home. While Hamas intended to kill with the rockets, Yaron has other plans for them
Yaron, a computer teacher from the remote village of Yated, a stones throw away from both the Egyptian and Gaza border, never imagined that fear of rockets would one day inspire his art. Life in Yated, once peaceful, changed after Israel’s withdrawal from Gaza in 2005, when over 60,000 rockets were fired at Israel by Islamic terror groups like Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad. For Yaron and his family, seeking shelter became a terrifying routine, leaving deep emotional scars. The sight of the Kassam rockets once filled him with anger and despair. But by 2008, overwhelmed by the need to cope, Yaron made an intense decision: to create something beautiful from the destruction. “It finally struck me that I need to make something beautiful—a rose—from the Kassam,” he said. That moment sparked the birth of ‘Rockets into Roses,’ a unique project that would forever change how he saw the world around him.
A stunning hand-crafted rose sculpture, meticulously forged from rockets, with a striking base shaped like the map of Israel
Yaron’s Art: Transforming Materials into Masterpieces of Resilience and Beauty
Yaron’s art is truly unique, showing his talent for turning any material into a masterpiece. He creates stunning Menorahs, sculptures, jewelry, keychains,necklaces (including Stars of David and with verses from the Bible), and Mezuzah cases (and other holy items). One of his most special collections is the Iron Dome series. Yaron gained international recognition for his art made from the remains of Kassam rockets that once threatened Israel. Inspired by the Iron Dome’s success in protecting Israel, he transformed these rocket remnants into beautiful art, creating pieces that combine history, strength, and beauty.
Art inspired by the Iron Dome, a system credited with saving tens of thousands of Israeli lives. Its success combines advanced technology, intelligence, and Divine protection, helping Israel endure and thrive over time.
One of his most unbelievable creations is a collection of musical instruments he calls “The Sound of Peace.” Inspired by the ancient Hebrew lyre of King David, these instruments are made of metal pieces that play different tunes when struck in succession. Among the melodies are the Israeli National Anthem, the US National Anthem, and even iconic themes from Harry Potter and Pirates of the Caribbean. For those who tour the Gaza Envelope, a visit to his studio offers a powerful reminder of resilience amidst the death and destruction that has ravaged the region.
An awe-inspiring display of Yaron’s unique instruments, crafted to resemble David’s Harp. The one adorned with the Israeli flag plays Hatikvah, while the one with the American flag echoes the Star-Spangled Banner – breathtaking harmony of patriotism as each instrument sings its anthem when struck in succession
Yaron’s Global Impact: A Legacy of Artistic Diplomacy and Peace
Among those who’ve received his stunning creations are former US Secretaries of State, UN officials and ambassadors such as Nikki Haley; Vice President Mike Pence, Prime Minister Netanyahu, President Herzog and many other world leaders. Yaron’s artistic gesture has left a lasting impression on the world stage, marking him as a truly international figure.
Yaron presenting a menorah to President Alejandro Giamatti of Guatemala (T-L). Nikki Haley joyfully accepts Yaron’s Rose sculpture (T-R). Israeli President Isaac Herzog gifting a menorah to Vice President Mike Pence (B-L). Prime Minister Netanyahu receiving a one-of-a-kind art piece (B-R)
In 2019, during the official White House lighting ceremony, Yaron’s menorah was chosen for the prestigious candle-lighting, with President Trump and his entire cabinet standing by in a historic moment of celebration.
President Donald J. Trump, joined by his cabinet and Vice President Mike Pence, where Yaron’s Menorah was used to light the candles during the annual Hanukkah Reception in the East Room of the White House on Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2019.
Yaron Bob’s artwork goes beyond symbolism—it has played a crucial role in shaping foreign policy and even saving lives. As an example, his 2016 exhibition Rockets into Roses in Strasbourg, France, drew numerous European politicians. During the event, Bob delivered a powerful message to the European Parliamentarians, warning them that the aid they were sending to Palestinians was ultimately funding terrorism. “You must properly control the millions you send to Gaza,” he urged. Bob stressed the importance of redirecting these funds toward education and peace-building initiatives, teaching children that terror and violence are never the answer. He also condemned Hamas for prioritizing rockets and tunnels over the welfare of their own people. The impact was immediate. Following Bob’s remarks, Europe decided to cut millions in aid to Palestinians—an action that may have helped prevent further loss of life.
Yaron stands with European politicians at his 2016 exhibit, a pivotal moment that helped prevent millions of dollars from potentially reaching terrorists.
Yaron Bob is revolutionizing both the art world and the fight for safety in rocket-threatened regions. By transforming weapons of destruction into stunning pieces of art he’s not only raising awareness, but also providing critical support for communities in need. A portion of his sales helps fund critical bomb shelters for communities at risk, and every rocket used is carefully inspected for safety by Israel’s security establishment. While Yaron takes pride in creating these unique artworks, his true wish is for a future where rockets are no longer needed—where his art, and the violence that fuels it, can be left behind. As he puts it, his ultimate goal is to one day be “put out of business.”
To support Yaron’s incredible work, contribute to the vital mission of building shelters across Israel, and own a unique piece of art with a meaningful story, Rockets into Roses Limited Time Offer: Enjoy Free Shipping on All Orders with the discount code: freeship
Nosson Shulmanis a journalist andLicensed Tour Guidein Israel specializing in Biblical tours. To allow tourists to experience Israel during the Corona era, he created the new hit Israel tour video serieswhich brings Israel to the home of viewers by simulating actual tours.
In part 1, we saw the first 5 of the top 10 reasons many consider Donald Trump to be the most Pro-Israel President in history. We continue with the next top 5 Things Trump Did for Israel:
5) Vetoed every Anti-Israel bill in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC)
Nicky Haley, who was chosen by President Trump to serve as his UN ambassador, is seen vetoing an anti-Israel resolution that Egypt had proposed. Photo credit: UN Watch
Since the US vetoed its first UNSC anti-Israel resolution in September 1972, it has done so for the majority of subsequent UNSC anti-Israel measures. The UNSC once again introduced a discriminatory resolution (2334) in December 2016, during the final days of the Obama administration and following the election of Donald Trump. It called for the cessation of Jewish construction in biblical Judea and Samaria (also known as the West Bank) and East Jerusalem, condemned all Israeli construction in these areas as unlawful under international law, and called for the labeling of all products made in the settlements as not being Israeli-made (even labeling Jewish holy sites like the Western Wall as Palestinian). In a significant betrayal of Israel, the Obama administration abstained from vetoing the resolution, resulting in the antisemitic bill passing 14-0, the first time the US has allowed such a resolution to pass in 36 years. Despite Senegal, Venezuela, and Malaysia having formally introduced the resolution, Prime Minister Netanyahu stated that he had no doubt the Obama administration was the one who initiated it. He even told then-Secretary of State John Kerry directly that “friends don’t take friends to the Security Council.”
On hearing this, Donald Trump was livid, tweeting “We cannot continue to let Israel be treated with such total disdain and disrespect. They used to have a great friend in the U.S., but not anymore. The beginning of the end was the horrible Iran deal, and now this (U.N.)! Stay strong Israel, 20 January is fast approaching!”. True to this word, during the Trump administration, all anti-Israel UNSC resolutions without exception were vetoed by the US unconditionally and without concessions (the one anti-Israel resolution that the Obama administration had vetoed in 2011, was done only with Israeli concessions).
In April 2017, when the United States assumed the presidency of the United Nations Security Council (the presidency rotates on a monthly basis), the Trump Administration’s US Ambassador to the UN, Nicky Haley, announced that during her tenure, the focus would be on Hamas, Hezbollah, Iran’s support for terrorism, and real human rights issues around the world that had been ignored due to the UNSC’s obsession with Israel. She also stated she would not allow the bullying of Israel by the UN to continue.
The Biden-Harris administration regrettably followed Obama’s example in March 2024 by once again abstaining from an anti-Israel resolution, allowing it to pass and harming US-Israel ties. A high-level delegation visit to the White House was subsequently canceled by Prime Minister Netanyahu in protest. In recent interviews, presidential candidate Kamala Harris has publicly said that she would not alter a single action taken by Joe Biden.
4) Leaving the disastrous Iran Nuclear Deal and Bringing Iran close to bankruptcy
Netanyahu showing the media a selection of the more than 100,000 documents that, in a daring raid, less than two dozen Mossad agents had taken from an Iranian warehouse and brought back to Israel that same evening. The Obama administration gave Iran a sweetheart nuclear deal, but these records revealed that Iran was lying to them. Photo Credit: Israeli Government.
Notwithstanding the fierce opposition of Israel, almost all Republicans, and even a large number of Democratic Senators and Congressmen, then-President Obama introduced and signed the Iran Nuclear Agreement, also known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), in 2015. This agreement is arguably the worst international accord in history. Iran had a sweetheart deal in which they received $100 billion US in Iranian assets in foreign banks that were unfrozen, many crippling trade sanctions were lifted, allowing Iran to secure extremely profitable and beneficial trade deals (particularly with Europe), and their ballistic missile program and funding of terrorism and other destabilizing activities in the region were left unrestricted. In return Iran, openly promising to wipe Israel off the map multiple times, was supposed to limit their uranium enrichment temporarily, a key process used in making a nuclear weapon, with many of the restrictions expiring in 2025. By 2030, Iran would be free to expand enrichment to an industrial scale, leaving them the ability to develop nuclear weapons after the “sunset” of these clauses. Theoretically, the International Atomic Energy (IAEA) inspectors were supposed to have unlimited access to Iranian nuclear facilities, but oddly, the agreement did not allow for “anytime, anywhere” inspections. In case the IAEA suspected non-compliance, Iran had 24 days to allow inspection (more than enough time to hide their activities). However, in practice, requests sometimes took more than 6 months. In addition, Iran declared many of their military sites entirely off limits to inspectors. The agreement also required Iran to disclose to the IAEA all military components of its nuclear program. Despite their assurances to the Obama administration that their nuclear program was solely for peaceful and civilian uses, papers seized from Iran during a bold Mossad raid demonstrated that they had been lying. To put it briefly, this agreement put the Jewish State and the entire west at risk.
In 2018, President Donald Trump fulfilled his campaign pledge by withdrawing from the deal and reimposing severe sanctions, bringing Iran to its knees. Iran went from having at least 128 billion USD in foreign reserve funds at the start of Trump’s presidency to having barely 4 billion USD remaining at its end. Iran could no longer afford to fund most of Hezbollah, Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), and Hamas activities, resulting in the firing of most of the terrorists on its payrolls.
Unfortunately, the Biden-Harris administration made every effort to get Iran to re-engage in the agreement at the start of the presidency but Iran has refused any offer thus far. They loosened restrictions on Iran’s oil trade, which generated between February 21, 2021, and November 7, 2023, an estimated 88 billion to 98 billion USD in revenue, and they unfrozen 16 billion dollars in Iranian assets. Iran’s backing of terrorism suddenly intensified. For example, Hamas went from getting around 100 million USD per year to 350 million USD per year by October 7, 2023, when they carried out the bloodiest attack on Jews since the Holocaust. While the motivation for Hezbollah, PIJ, and Hamas to wage war on Israel would have existed regardless of who was president, without Iranian funding, it is difficult to imagine how the terrorist organizations could have afforded to fight the war, which continues well over a year later.
3) Official declaring that Jewish building in Judea and Samaria is NOT a violation of international law
I’m very fortunate to do tours of Israel for visitors from all over the world as a tour guide, including Judea and Samaria, the heart of biblical Israel. Unfortunately, a large portion of the international community views Jews who reside in their biblical homeland as unlawful and illegitimate.
Judea and Samaria, often known as the West Bank, are the biblical heartland of the Jewish people. This area contains 80% of the sites mentioned in the Hebrew Bible, including Bethel, Hebron, Jerusalem, Shiloh, Jericho, Bethlehem and Rachel’s Tomb, Mount Gerizim, Mount Ebal, Anathoth, Maale Adumim, Karmei Tzur, Beth-Horon, Joseph’s Tomb, Mizpeh and Samuel’s Tomb, the Cave of the Patriarchs, the City of David, and many other locations. Jews are indigenous to this land and have lived here for millennia prior to the arrival of Islam, which conquered and colonized Israel in 640 CE. Unfortunately, in international forms and among unelected bureaucrats in the US State Department, many people wrongly refer to Jews who choose to settle in their ancestral homelands as occupiers and impediments to the peace process. Since Jimmy Carter’s presidency, US policy has largely been that Israeli Settlements are inconsistent with international laws. In 2019, Trump’s Secretary of State Mike Pompeo reversed decades of US policy by declaring that the US no longer considers settlements illegal according to International Law.
Unfortunately, Biden’s Secretary of State Antony Blinken reversed Trump’s decision in February 2024, declaring Israeli settlements to be “illegitimate under international law.” It is expected that Trump will quickly restore his policy if re-elected President.
2) The Taylor Force Act cuts off funding and aid to the Palestinian Authority until they stop funding terrorism.
Terrorists in Israeli prisons receive considerable support from the Palestinian government, that receives the majority of its funding from foreign aid, and are openly celebrated in mainstream Palestinian culture. 2018 saw the passage of the Taylor Force Act by President Trump, which ends financial assistance to the Palestinians as long as they continue to provide stipends to incarcerated terrorists and the families of those who have died while committing acts of terror.
The Palestinian Authority (PA) is a well known kleptocracy, a system where corrupt politicians enrich themselves secretly outside the rule of law, through kickbacks, bribes, and special favors from lobbyists and corporations, or they simply direct state funds to themselves and their associates. The PA receives between 30 and 60 percent of its funding from foreign aid, although it is difficult to pinpoint the precise amount because of their questionable bookkeeping. Many Palestinians suffer because so little of the very generous foreign aid designated for medical treatment, clean water access, food security, agriculture, and education actually reaches its intended recipient. Yet one thing the PA always has money for is its Palestinian Authority Martyrs Fund, better known as pay to slay, which allocates monthly salaries and benefits to imprisoned and released terrorists, and the families of “Martyrs” who died while committing acts of terrorism such as suicide bombings. The longer the term and the more Jews murdered, the more money they receive. The families of a Palestinian serving the longest sentences possibly make approximately 10 times what a Palestinian police officer receives. Such promises greatly incentivize terrorism in a society that does not provide many opportunities for its citizens. The program distributes approximately $300 million annually to terrorists.
President Trump signed the Taylor Force Act into law in 2018, making it illegal for the US to continue paying the PA as long as it continues its violent pay-to-slay operation. Following its passage, the US cut off hundreds of millions of dollars in financing for the Palestinians.
1) Moving the Embassy to Jerusalem
The US Embassy in Jerusalem, Israel’s capital. It was relocated from Tel Aviv on May 14, 2018, on the orders of the Trump administration. Photo Credit: U.S. Embassy Jerusalem – _DSC0557 – CC BY 2.0
If you ask anyone what Donald Trump’s most important move with Israel was, they’ll probably say that it was transferring the US embassy to Jerusalem, a fulfillment of his campaign promise. He was not the first candidate to make such a pledge, though. George W. Bush and Bill Clinton both promised to relocate the US embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. But neither fulfilled their campaign pledge. Barack Obama, who was then running for president, stated in an address to AIPAC in 2008 “I continue to say that Jerusalem will be the capital of Israel. I have said it before and will say it again.” Nonetheless, the embassy stayed in Tel Aviv for his eight-year rule.
On May 14, 2018, Donald Trump officially moved the embassy to Jerusalem, Israel’s eternal capital. Since then, as reported here, many countries have followed suit.
Sponsored by Rockets Into Roses: Discover the powerful art of an Israeli Hero living on the Gaza border, who transforms rocket fragments into stunning, one-of-a-kind masterpieces. His Art, his Jewelry, and items of Biblical Value owned by US presidents and many world leaders, not only symbolizes resilience but directly supports charities aiding Israelis in the Gaza Envelope.
To sponsor our next article or newsletter and have your business seen by thousands of our American pro-Israel subscribers and beyond, please contact us at info@guidedtoursofisrael.com
Nosson Shulmanis a journalist andLicensed Tour Guidein Israel specializing in Biblical tours. To allow tourists to experience Israel during the Corona era, he created the new hit Israel tour video serieswhich brings Israel to the home of viewers by simulating actual tours. To check out his free sneak preview tour videos, click here.To view sample tour itineraries or to inquire about private tour opportunities with a personalized itinerary on your next trip to Israel,click here.
Tragic repercussions have befallen innocent Israeli families with smalls kids as a result of the ongoing battle in Israel, a war our nation did not start. While the plight of the innocent Israeli hostages (may they be speedily released), residents of the Gaza envelope area, and the dangers our beloved IDF soldiers face on a daily basis are commonly reported in the news (as they should be), the plight of Israeli kids suffering directly due to the war has been a casualty of the conflict that has largely been ignored.
Job losses and delays in commerce are only a few examples of how these consequences have seeped into daily life, going beyond the obvious risks of violence from terrorist organizations. These interruptions are having far-reaching consequences that are creating a great deal of trouble and suffering for many people who before October 7 were flourishing.
Helping the people of Israel is a biblical commandment that G-d promises reward for those who fulfill as it says in Genesis 12:3 “And I will bless those who bless you”.
Playing your part in helping G-d’s people to live in peace and tranquility brings tremendous blessing upon its doers as it says in Psalms 122: 6 “Request the welfare of Jerusalem; may those who love you enjoy tranquility.”
PRECIOUS ISRAELI KIDS ARE LOOKING TO YOUR FOR HELP. These days, fundraising and resources are mostly concentrated on helping soldiers on the front and on the war efforts. However, it’s important to remember that even during a time of war, Israeli kids need to eat, and there is where YOU come in. Everyone who gives is also receiving as it is written in Obadiah 1:15 “For the day of the Lord over all the nations is close; as you have done shall be done to you; your payment shall be returned upon your head.“
Innocent kids are facing issues that no child should ever face and this is why we need your help now!
As the war drags on, Israeli families confront not just the overt danger of war but also the covert but no less deadly effects of social and economic disintegration. Many people are worried and uncertain because of the disruption of vital services, the halt in production, and the food shortage. Families already dealing with loss or living in constant fear of loss are finding the emotional and psychological burden intensified by these situations.
A worldwide outpouring of sympathy and aid is desperately needed as Israeli families face these hardships. The human cost of war, which goes well beyond the battlefield, is painfully evident in their plight. When people are down and suffering, the cry for help and unity becomes more than just the right thing to do; it becomes a symbol of hope for the hopeless.
Please, once again, I humbly ask you to support those families who are victims of the war with essential help for us to get through these difficult times.
To bless Israel with a gift, and to be blessed, click here.
Nosson Shulman
Nosson Shulmanis a journalist andLicensed Tour Guidein Israel specializing in Biblical tours. To allow tourists to experience Israel during the Corona era, he created the new hit Israel tour video serieswhich brings Israel to the home of viewers by simulating actual tours. To check out his free sneak preview tour videos, click here.To view sample tour itineraries or to inquire about private tour opportunities with a personalized itinerary on your next trip to Israel,click here.
JoinVIP Israel tour guide, creator of Authentic Virtual Israel Tours and radio host Nosson Shulman each week as he leads you on an inspiring, short virtual tour of a different off the beaten track biblical site in Israel. The new series airs live every week on Israel News Talk Radio and is then posted here in video form
For more on the Biblical House of the Shunamite Woman,click here
Nosson Shulmanis a journalist andLicensed Tour Guidein Israel specializing in Biblical tours. To allow tourists to experience Israel during the Corona era, he created the new hit Israel tour video serieswhich brings Israel to the home of viewers by simulating actual tours. To check out his free sneak preview tour videos, click here.To view sample tour itineraries or to inquire about private tour opportunities with a personalized itinerary on your next trip to Israel,click here.
There is a good chance that Donald Trump could be cited as the most pro-Israel US President of all time if you asked the typical Israeli on the street or supporter of the Jewish State. This has been confirmed by numerous informal and scientific polls. In the sole democracy in the Middle East, the former President enjoys an extraordinarily high level of popularity (a June 2019 poll found that 79% of Israelis backed him, compared to 10% who did not). The Trump administration stands out, especially when compared to previous administrations like the Obama and Carter ones, which were frequently seen as hostile toward Israel, or to administrations like Clinton and Bush Sr., which were not seen as anti-Israel but frequently forced Israel to take actions that were not in its best interest, sometimes with fatal results. The following are 10 reasons why Donald Trump remains popular in Israel.
This article is primarily intended to be informative, regarding Trump’s foreign policy in the Middle East with special reference to Israel using facts rather than opinions (for instance, the Embassy’s relocation to Jerusalem was a historical fact). A person should NOT read this article further if they fear they would become triggered or feel unsafe after reading something that could be taken by many as favorably portraying Donald Trump.
Here are ten reasons why many people believe that Donald Trump is the most pro-Israel president in history:
10) He actively and successfully lobbied other nations to relocate their embassies to Jerusalem
Kosovos opened their Embassy in Jerusalem in March 2021 as a direct result of Donald Trump’s lobbying
Although the US embassy’s relocation to Jerusalem was a historic decision on its own, President Donald Trump has gone one step further and openly urged other nations to follow suit. For example, as reported here, President Trump performed the seemingly impossible and mediated a deal on economic normalization between Serbia and Kosovo, two long-standing warring nations (which, for the most part, the mainstream media chose not to cover). Trump had stipulated in the accord that both nations would relocate their embassies and acknowledge Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. In March 2021, Kosovo moved their embassy to Jerusalem while Serbia has since opened a trade office in Jerusalem (which is usually the first step before opening the full embassy).
When President Trump shifted the embassy, he also eliminated the unwritten international rule that prevented nations from declaring Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. Indeed, Guatemala followed Trump’s lead two days later, and Paraguay opened its new embassy in the Holy City seven days later (shortly after the move, a new government in Paraguay returned their embassy to Tel Aviv, but in recent months, they have declared their intention to move it back to Israel’s eternal capital). The full embassies of Honduras and Papua New Guinea now stand proud in Jerusalem, while countries like the Czech Republic, Hungary, Argentina and Slovakia recognize Jerusalem as capital of the Jewish State.
9) Eliminating the most formidable Shiite and Sunni arch terrorists
Abu Bakr El-Baghdadi (right) was the Caliph (leader) of ISIS, while General Qasem Soleimani of Iran (left) was widely regarded as the most potent terrorist in the world.
The majority of funding for many dangerous terrorist groups such as Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis, who currently control most of Yemen, including the capital, and other groups comes from Iran (in certain cases like PIJ, 100% of it comes from them). Second only to the Ayatollah in terms of power, General Soleimani directed not only the heavily armed terrorist organizations that reported to him, but also the Iranian Revolutionary Guard, Iran’s genocidal army that has exported war throughout the Middle East as well as internationally and is considered a terrorist organization by the United States, Bahrain, Canada, Saudi Arabia, Sweden, and other countries. Very little terror in the region occurred without his involvement. He was also responsible for the death of countless US soldiers and civilians throughout the world.
After an attempted attack on the US embassy in Iraq and the death of an American contractor, and with US intelligence suggesting that additional attacks were likely, President Trump resolved to remove this ticking time bomb once and for all. On January 3, 2020, after General Soleimani arrived in Baghdad to meet with Iraq’s president, Trump ordered a drone strike that killed Soleimani and other high-ranking terrorists in the car with him. Although not the end of international terrorism, it dealt a significant blow to it. As a result of this attack, Iran reduced their bad behavior for the duration of President Trump’s tenure (this trend has mostly reversed under Biden).
President Trump also destroyed the Islamic State caliphate, reducing it from a “country” which controlled large swaths of Iraq and Syria (including major cities) and which was about the size of Pennsylvania on the day of his inauguration to a shell of it’s former controlling no territory (although most of its capacities have been reduced and most of its members dead or in hiding, it is still a dangerous terror organization). On October 27, 2019, American forces killed the ISIS founder and undisputed leader, Abu Bakr Al Baghdadi which was a blow from which the Sunni terror group has never recovered.
8) Defunding UNWRA and UNESCO
The US provides 22% of the revenue for the United Nations (UN), while the UN frequently acts against US interests in return. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), which receives roughly 30% of its funding from the US (about $350 million annually), is one of the most troublesome (and hazardous) UN organizations. Millions of Palestinians remain in refugee camps across the Middle East, denied integration by their host Arab countries, and are the only group in the world whose parents are permitted by the UN to pass on their refugee status to their offspring. This agency is largely to blame for this situation. Additionally, they oversee at least 40% of the schools in Gaza, where young Arab children are taught to despise the West and Jews while simultaneously emphasizing the “beauty” of jihad. Many of the organization’s upper management and staff are officially affiliated with Hamas. For example, the president of UNRWA’s Teacher Association was Fateh Sherif Abu el-Amin, the commander of Hamas in Lebanon and a key recruiter for the terror group, who was eliminated by Israel on September 29, 2024. In addition to serving as a platform for the recruitment of terrorists, almost none of the intended aid actually reaches Palestinian civilians, with UNRWA staff frequently misusing the funds to operate profitable black markets for essential supplies. Trump chose to sever all financing to UNRWA, citing as absurd the idea of US taxpayers supporting an antisemitic and anti-American group. While President Biden regrettably restored much of the financing during his first few months in office, the US has once again stopped funding the UNWRA since numerous UNWRA staff members were complicit in the October 7 Massacre of Jews.
During the Obama administration, another agency, the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) admitted Palestine as a member state in 2011. The United States is not allowed by law to support UN groups that do so. Nevertheless, until Donald Trump withdrew the US from UNESCO in 2019, the US stayed a member. Sadly, President Biden ordered the United States to re-join as a member state in 2023 and reinstated funding for 22% of UNESCO’s yearly budget.
7) Recognizing the Golan Heights as belonging to Israel
Then President Donald J. Trump, joined by then Vice President Mike Pence and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu signs a proclamation formally recognizing Israel’s sovereignty over the Golan Heights Monday, March 25, 2019, in the Diplomatic Reception Room of the White House
Arguably, the most important territory for Israel’s security is the Golan Heights in the country’s north. This area, which is a part of Biblical Israel, was granted to the tribe of Menashe by G-d. The Golan Heights famously overlooks Israel’s main water sources, as well as populated areas. From 1948-1967, Syria controlled the Heights and would shoot into civilian communities without provocation. During the 1967 Six Day war, Israel liberated the Golan Heights, ending the nightmare for the Israeli schoolchildren and farmers who were easy targets for Syrian Snipers.
In 1981 Israel legally annexed the Golan Heights, applying civilian law, although most countries did not recognize it. Many countries pressured Israel to return the Golan Heights to Syria. Had Israel complied with these demands, today Al Qaeda, ISIS and Iran would be meters away from Israel’s northern communities and water.
On March 25, 2019, President Trump signed an executive order making the United States the first country to recognize Israel’s claim to the Golan Heights. In recognition of his kind act, Israel created the new municipality of Ramot Trump (Trump Heights) on the Golan Heights. Over 300 homes are anticipated to be built, with many families having already moved in.
6) Making Peace Treaties between Israel and four Arab countries
President Trump flanked by Foreign Minister of Bahrain Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al-Zayani, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Minister of Foreign Affairs for the United Arab Emirates Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan signs the Abraham Accords Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2020, on the South Lawn of the White House.
When President Trump made a campaign promise to bring peace between Israel and its neighbors, the media, politicians from both major parties, and all of the self proclaimed “experts” said it was impossible. Even President Trump’s pro-Israel supporters expressed skepticism. Previous administrations had already tried and failed. The commentators declared that any remaining hope for peace was lost when he relocated the US embassy to Jerusalem. As it happens, the “experts” were mistaken, and four formerly hostile Muslim nations— Morocco, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bahrain, and Sudan—have since made peace with the Jewish State. The peace he brought wasn’t just a peace between governments as the previous Jordanian and Egyptian treaties were, but a peace between the private citizens of both countries. Unlike their counterparts in western nations such as France, the UK, Sweden, and Germany, the majority of observant Jewish and Israeli tourists to the UAE nowadays—and they are numerous—don’t even attempt to conceal their identity. Even the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building in Dubai and a symbol of their economic power, hosts a flourishing Kosher restaurant.
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Nosson Shulmanis a journalist andLicensed Tour Guidein Israel specializing in Biblical tours. To allow tourists to experience Israel during the Corona era, he created the new hit Israel tour video serieswhich brings Israel to the home of viewers by simulating actual tours. To check out his free sneak preview tour videos, click here.To view sample tour itineraries or to inquire about private tour opportunities with a personalized itinerary on your next trip to Israel,click here.
Despite his claims of being pro-Israel, President Biden has a lengthy history of threatening to withhold money from Israel in the midst of its self-defense wars
While Israel was fighting in Lebanon in 1982, then-senator Joe Biden (right) threatened to cut off vital aid if Prime Minister Menachem Begin (left) refused to comply with his stance of the conflict.
As Israel continues to fight for its life, (self-proclaimed “Pro-Israel”) President Biden declared that he will be preventing delivery of smart bombs to Israel because the IDF has entered Rafah, the last stronghold held by Hamas. The Israeli security establishment views this operation as crucial to defeating the group that carried out the worst genocide against the Jewish people since Nazi Germany. Furthermore, as per recent reports, the Biden administration is also withholding vital intelligence it has accumulated regarding the location of terrorists’ tunnels and information about hiding spots of terrorists who led the October 7 attacks. He has informed the Jewish State that his administration will share the information only in the event that Israel terminates the operation. Although this might seem strange coming from a man describing himself as “Israel’s best friend” and a “Zionist,” the truth is that Biden has been conducting himself in this manner for decades!
Benjamin Netanyahu is not the first Israeli Prime Minister that Biden blackmailed about aid during wartime. In 1982, in order to drive out the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) that established a state within a state in southern Lebanon and was using its base to fire missiles at residents of Northern Israel while carrying out terrorist attacks against Israelis and Westerners abroad, then-Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin launched Operation Peace for the Galilee.
During a meeting between Prime Minister Begin and the Senate Foreign Relations committee, then Senator Biden (D-DE) threatened to remove military aid from Israel. At the time, Israel was significantly more dependent on US funding and support than they are today. Refusing to give up Israel’s security, Begin gave Biden a stern response: “Don’t threaten us with cutting off your aid. It will not work. I am not a Jew with trembling knees. I am a proud Jew with 3,700 years of civilized history. Nobody came to our aid when we were dying in the gas chambers and ovens. Nobody came to our aid when we were striving to create our country. We paid for it. We fought for it. We died for it. We will stand by our principles. We will defend them. And, when necessary, we will die for them again, with or without your aid.”
Those in attendance said that after Biden was contradicted, he banged his fist aggressively on the desk, to which Begin reprimanded him, saying: “This desk is designed for writing, not for fists. Don’t threaten us with slashing aid. Do you think that because the US lends us money it is entitled to impose on us what we must do? We are grateful for the assistance we have received, but we are not to be threatened. I am a proud Jew. Three thousand years of culture are behind me, and you will not frighten me with threats. Take note: we do not want a single soldier of yours to die for us.”
After the meeting, Senator Moynihan (D-NY) approached Begin and thanked him for his response to Biden. In the end, Biden was unable to muster enough support to cut off aid to Israel and the PLO was successfully expelled from southern Lebanon.
Similar to Menachem Begin, it appears that current Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will continue to operate to destroy Hamas’ last stronghold. In what appears to be a response against Biden’s threats, the Prime Minister said:
“I say to the leaders of the world — no amount of pressure, no decision from any international forum, will stop Israel from defending itself. If Israel is forced to stand alone, Israel will stand alone. Countless decent people around the world support our just cause. We will defeat our genocidal enemies. Never again is now.”
To contribute to Israel’s war effort by preventing the immediate collapse of Jewish farmers who raise a large portion of the world’s Kosher veggies and farm Israel’s front lines on the Gaza and Egyptian borders, click here to make a tax-deductible donation.
Nosson Shulmanis a journalist andLicensed Tour Guidein Israel specializing in Biblical tours. To allow tourists to experience Israel during the Corona era, he created the new hit Israel tour video serieswhich brings Israel to the home of viewers by simulating actual tours. To check out his free sneak preview tour videos, click here.To view sample tour itineraries or to inquire about private tour opportunities with a personalized itinerary on your next trip to Israel,click here.
After being forcibly removed from Gaza in 2005, they defied all odds to turn a desolate border territory green. Everything changed again on October 7th.
One of Hamas’s many missiles, directly aimed at these Jewish farmers, that damaged their fields and expensive farming equipment
In 1984, with the encouragement of the Israeli Government, Torah observant families started a religious farming town called Netzarim in the desolate sand-dunes of the Gaza Strip. With perfect faith in G-d, and an excitement to fulfill the biblical commandment to settle the land of Israel, they began building greenhouses where yams and cherry tomatoes were grown in abundance, along with a mango plantation, vineyard, and very prestigious Etrog farm. Together with the Jewish farmers of Gush Katif, they built up a multi-million-dollar farming empire that grew the majority of Israel’s most important vegetables and was the world’s largest supplier of kosher veggies (the residents of Netzarim used much of their profit to support Kollelim, Institutions of Torah Learning). Unfortunately, due to international pressure in 2005, the IDF forcibly removed all of the Jewish residents of Gush Katif, “gifting” their very expensive greenhouses to the Arabs to allow them the chance to build a prosperous economy (ironically all of the greenhouses were either looted or used for fighting the Jewish State, and as a result, not a single vegetable was ever grown there). The farmers lost everything they had built up and had to restart from scratch.
Without much help from the Government, and having been expelled from Gush Katif, Jewish farmers Sharon Cohen, Yair Ziv, Rabbi Yitzhak Sofer, and Eli Feinsilver started the Yeshuot Chalutza farm in the barren sand dunes by the Egyptian and Gaza borders. Without much help from the Government, and having been expelled from Gush Katif, Jewish farmers Sharon Cohen, Yair Ziv, Rabbi Yitzhak Sofer, and Eli Feinsilver started the Yeshuot Chalutza farm in the barren sand dunes by the Egyptian and Gaza borders.
In 2008 the expelled farmers of Netzarim started a new agricultural town, fittingly called Bnei Netzarim (literally translated as “Sons of Netzarim”). They settled right on the Gaza and Egyptian borders on the barren sand dunes of Chalutza, together with the towns of Neveh and Shlomit (composed of Gaza expellees from other agricultural villages). The desert land was so barren (having not even one inhabitant) that in 2000, former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak tried to surrender the Land to Arabs in a peace deal, which they thankfully rejected by saying the town was just sand, not worth anything. When the farmers settled here, one of their first accomplishments was setting up educational Torah institutions, including two Yeshiva high schools for boys and 2 for girls (2 of their schools are ranked in the top 50 high schools in all of Israel).
In 2000, left wing Israel Prime Minister Ehud Barak tried to surrender the Chalutza Sand dunes to the future Arab state (see blue circle). The Arabs rejected this “useless land” and today it is one of Israel’s greenest, most fertile and fastest growing regions in the country.
Four farmers Sharon Cohen, Yair Ziv, Rabbi Yitzhak Sofer, and Eli Feinsilver from Bnei Netzarim started the Yeshuot Chalutza farms. For the first 6 years, they lived in temporary caravans. With their hard work, faith in G-d and commitment to His Torah, they built an even more successful (120 Acre) farm than what they originally had in Gush Katif. They also secured contracts with the Ministry of Education to supply vegetables to thousands of Israeli school kids.
This significant Israeli farm provides vital nutrition for thousands of Israeli schoolchildren.‘
On October 7, Israel was invaded but due to a series of incredible miracles, none of the residents of the Chalutza towns were killed. Additionally, their presence on the front line saved countless Israeli lives in the interior by slowing down the terrorists. However, 97% of the produce of the Yeshuot Chalutza farms were destroyed, as was almost all of their expensive farming equipment (for which they still owe the banks millions of shekels in loans). Now, unfortunately these heroic farmers are impoverished and just as in 2005, the Government is not giving them significant compensation to rebuild or buy new replacement equipment. If they are unable to rebuild, not only will the Jewish State lose their essential front-line residents, but the nourishment of thousands of Israeli school kids will be at risk.
Vegetables from the Yeshuot Chalutza farms which were grown and harvested before the October 7 attacks. Many of these vegetables fed Israeli school children.
Even with all of their tribulations, these farmers refuse to give up and will do whatever it takes to rebuild for a third time. Anyone who wants to take part in this holy endeavor of helping them purchase the new farming equipment, tools and greenhouses needed to rebuilt their lives (and thus allow them to continue feeding Israeli children and protecting Israel’s borders) are invited to give a tax deductable donation here. To view a short video made by one of the farmer’s wives, click here.
For a sample tour itinerary which can include experiencing this Gaza Envelope farm,click here.
Nosson Shulmanis a journalist andLicensed Tour Guidein Israel specializing in Biblical tours. To allow tourists to experience Israel during the Corona era, he created the new hit Israel tour video serieswhich brings Israel to the home of viewers by simulating actual tours. To check out his free sneak preview tour videos, click here.To view sample tour itineraries or to inquire about private tour opportunities with a personalized itinerary on your next trip to Israel,click here.
The Jerusalem Synagogue in Prague, the Czech Republic’s capital city. This Eastern European country has a rich Jewish history. Photo Credit: Shutterstock
In what will amount to a major diplomatic victory for Israel, Prime Minister Petr Fiala of the Czech Republic has announced that he will be moving the country’s embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem in the coming months. Officially, the Eastern European country already recognizes Jerusalem as the capital of the Jewish State. In 2019 along with Hungary, they were the first of the European Union (EU) countries to open up official branches of their embassies in Jerusalem (although their main offices are currently in Tel Aviv). Slovakia has since followed suit by opening a diplomatic mission in Jerusalem. Moving their embassies to the Holy City is significant, because they belong to the EU who officially refuses to recognize the Holy City as Israel’s capital. The EU actively (and obsessively) discourages other countries from doing so, often with threats against non-member European countries interested in joining the EU (for two examples, click here). This Slavic nation, however, has charted an independent approach to foreign policy. Prime Minister Fiala flatly stated, “I do not think we would have to proceed in consensus with all EU countries, we never had that in the case of Israel”.
The declaration made by the Czech Republic shouldn’t come as a surprise, since almost all the parties represented in the the 200-seat Chamber of Deputies of the Czech Republic (Parliament) are pro-Israel and expressed support for the move. Two days after the horrific October 7 massacre of Jews and Israelis by armed Palestinian civilians and terrorists, 5 of the 7 parties represented in the Chamber (representing 163 parliamentarians) voted for the motion to move the embassy, while the two remaining parties (who together hold 37 seats) refrained from officially taking a stance (no MPs voted against the resolution). The Czech Israel Allies Caucus, an active Pro-Israel group comprised of powerful Czech MPs, was established in recent years to boost legislative support for the Jewish State. These politicians have been actively encouraging MPs from other nations to join them in their efforts in recent months. As reported here, the parliaments of the Czech Republic and Slovakia recently celebrated Jerusalem day (the anniversary of Israel’s liberation of Jerusalem in the 1967 Six Day War) thus becoming the first of the European Union countries to do so. They often block anti-Israel motions in the EU (for certain laws to be adopted, all 27 member states must give consent), for example the requirement to label products from the West Bank and the Golan Heights, a bill described by Czech lawmakers as being antisemitic. At the UN, the Czech Republic is a reliable vote against anti-Israel resolutions.
The Czech Republic and Israel have shared a long history. During Israel’s War of Independence in 1948, Czechoslovakia played a major role in Israel’s victory. When Arab countries attacked, most of Israel’s “Allies” refused to sell any weapons to the fledging state, leaving Israel vulnerable to annihilation. The Czech Republic stepped in, secretly supplying Israel with the equipment needed for victory. ‘
Once the move is completed, the Czech Republic will join the United States, Guatemala, Kosovo, Honduras and Papua New Guinea who have already moved their embassies to Jerusalem. Other countries have recognized Jerusalem as Israel’s eternal capital and pledged to move their embassies shortly, including the African nations of Liberia, Malawi, Congo, and Equatorial Guinea and the South American nations of Argentina and Paraguay (which was scheduled to make the move in November 2023 but postponed because of the war). The island nations of Nauru, Vanuatu, and Fiji recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, with the latter promising to move its embassy by the end of 2024.
Nosson Shulmanis a journalist andLicensed Tour Guidein Israel specializing in Biblical tours. To allow tourists to experience Israel during the Corona era, he created the new hit Israel tour video serieswhich brings Israel to the home of viewers by simulating actual tours. To check out his free sneak preview tour videos, click here.To view sample tour itineraries or to inquire about private tour opportunities with a personalized itinerary on your next trip to Israel,click here.
Jewish students have long complained of discrimination and harassment at major campuses in the US, including “Ivy League” schools such as the University of Pennsylvania. Photo Credit: Shutterstock
It is abundantly clear that regular incidents of antisemitism have occurred (and been tolerated) at the US’s so-called “elite” universities for too long! Jewish students have long complained to the school administrations of harassment and intimidation (sometimes violent) from other students and faculty members, but the administration has knowingly (and maliciously) turned a blind eye. Although Jewish students were aware of the issue beforehand (57% of Jewish students surveyed in September reported having experienced or witnessed anti-Semitic incidents on campus) mainstream news outlets largely ignored it. Meanwhile, state and federal governments, as well as private donors, continued to fund the universities, providing little motivation for them to act against such behavior. All that changed with the October 7 Hamas Genocide, when the number of alarming events increased dramatically, as did the blatantness of such acts, to the point where the media were forced to report on them. For the first time ever, US universities are beginning to “realize” that they must act, now that wealthy donors, activists, and politicians are beginning to withhold their substantial financial support from the money hungry academic institutions.
The “Ivy League” University of Pennsylvania (UPenn), one of the biggest offenders, has repeatedly failed to defend its Jewish students, allowing antisemitism to thrive. For instance, the school recently permitted an antisemitic event to occur on campus, which coincidentally fell on Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the Jewish calendar. The event featured extreme bigots like Marc Lamont Hill, who was fired by CNN for calling for the eradication of the Jewish State, and musician Roger Waters, who frequently espouses conspiracy theories about Jewish lobbies being in control, has donned Nazi-like uniforms in concert, and displayed a giant, inflatable pig balloon with a Star of David at several of his shows. UP President Elizabeth Magill defended the event on the grounds of free speech (more on the selective “free speech” allowed on her campus shortly). Huge pro-Palestinian demonstrations callig for the eradication of Israel took place following October 7. During one of these demonstrations, a UPenn student who spoke at the event commended the events of “Glorious October 7”. She was subsequently arrested and charged with stealing an Israeli flag on campus. It does not appear that she has been expelled from the university as of this writing.
A student from UPenn is seen speaking fondly about the “joyful” images of butchered Israelis from the “glorious October 7th.”
She felt “happy” upon hearing the news of dead Jews in Israel.
In what appears to be a call for violence, she tells the crowd to “hold that feeling in… pic.twitter.com/pdygANFmtY
Congressman Ritchie Torres (D-NY) expressing his disgust via Twitter that someone with a UPenn education could utter such horrible things. The video contains strong racist language; viewer discretion is advised.
Donors are now fighting back, and it seems that things are beginning to change. Following the aforementioned occurrences, former Utah governor John Huntsman Jr. announced he was closing his checkbook to the university. His family has contributed tens of millions of dollars to the school. Due to this, Magill released a statement denouncing Hamas as a terrorist organization, discussed efforts to combat antisemitism on campus, and acknowledged that the administration ought to have denounced the antisemitic speakers at the aforementioned gathering earlier. A large number of the school’s Mega donors withdrew their financing as a result of her remarks, which many saw as insincere, devoid of decisive action, and too little, too late. Some even openly urged others to follow suit. Billionaire Marc Rowan, who donated $50 million to the university just in 2018 alone, urged that all funders stop supporting the institution until Magill and Board of Trustees Chair Scott Bok resigned. Following that, businessman Vahan Gureghian quit from the school’s Board of Trustees in protest at its administration. Yet, incidents of harassment directed towards Jewish students on campus persisted. These included the spray painting of “The Jews R Nazis” on a building across from a Jewish fraternity house, an incident in which a law school staffer was caught on camera tearing down posters of Israeli hostages and cursing at the student filming him (the law school spokesman described it as a “personal matter” under investigation). Other incidents included emails directed towards members of Hillel, the Jewish student organization on campus, containing threats of bombs that required the FBI’s intervention, and vile antisemitic emails directed towards Jewish staff members. Student organizations projected the phrase “From the river to the sea…” on campus buildings on November 9th; this has been recognized as an antisemitic chant that calls for Israel’s annihilation.
Reading between the lines of common antisemitic slogan used as rallies, what is meant is “From the (Jordan) River to the (Mediterranean) Sea, Palestine Will Be Free (of Jews)”. Photo Credit: Police Free Pen
The continued passivity of the university to tackle these problems with actions, not just words, resulted in more important backers refraining from financially supporting the school. Venture capitalist David Magerman and hedge fund billionaire Cliff Asness said that they wouldn’t donate any more money until meaningful change was made, and Jewish students felt safe on campus. Ronald Lauder (sole heir to the Estee Lauder cosmetic company) stopped his donations to the Lauder Institute (named after him) at the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business. Spooked by these financial backers bailing on the school, President Magill finally announced the formation of a task force to combat antisemitism. Because the task force lacked any enforcement, antisemitism continued. This included students harassing patrons and the owner of a Kosher restaurant while “Chanting we are Hamas” and a protest where at least two professors joined and were filmed “calling for war against Israel” and telling Jews to go back to (expletive) Berlin (according to congressional testimony, it appears that neither of the two faculties members have been disciplined). During this time Jewish students testified before congress that they skipped exams, because they were too afraid to walk from their dorms to class.
As a result of not protecting the students, Professor Elizabeth Magill was subpoenaed to congress, along with the presidents of Harvard or MIT (schools where Jewish students arguably are more afraid than those at UPenn). The hearing was a PR disaster for all three schools. All three principals responded that it “depended on the context” when asked if advocating for the extermination of Jews violated their school’s regulations. Under questioning from Congresswoman Elise Stephanik (R-NY), two of the three principals grinned defiantly.
While refusing to answer whether calling for the murder of Jews was a violation of the UPenn’s code of conduct, President Magill was grinning from ear to ear.
When Magill tried to defend her school by saying that the free speech polices of the school are guided by the US constitution, Rep. Jim Banks (R-IN) brought numerous examples of times that the school barred speakers from campus. For instance the school cancelled India’s Prime Minister Modi’s visit, due to opposition from certain Indian-American professors. The school also attempted to fire a tenured law professor due to her beliefs against the school’s diversity policy and comments on identity issues (other examples were brought up). Banks finished his statement by saying that UPenn indeed does regulate speech that they do not like. It should be pointed out that the well-respected Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression has rated UPenn as the second worst college in the country with regards to freedom of speech (Harvard ranked first).
Must See video where Congressman Jim Banks (R-IN) shows the hypocrisy and inconsistency of Magill and UPenn’s “Free Speech” Policy
Her performance was universally condemned by politicians on the left and right, and calls for resignation were made by 78 members of congress (mostly Republican but a few Democrats as well). PA Governor Josh Shapiro (D) called her speech “absolutely shameful”. The following day, in a televised address, she apologized and admitted that calling for the genocide of Jews was a violation of the code of conduct. But the damage had been done. When mega donor Ross Stevens threatened to withhold his pledged donation of 100 million dollars to the University, all of a sudden, the school’s board who had largely been supportive of Magill, forced her to resign (one hour later, Board of Trustees Chair Scott Bok also resigned).
Four days after Magill’s shameful speech, Republican lawmakers in Pennsylvania (PA) defeated legislation to send 33.5 million dollars to the “Ivy League” University of Pennsylvania’s veterinary school over its silence on anti-Semitism and allowing protests that call for the ethic cleansing of Jews from Israel (until now, this state funding has enjoyed wide bipartisan support). State Republicans are currently drafting legislation that would make state funding of universities dependent on the school’s code of conduct, making clear that calling for genocide constitutes bullying and harassment.
In other states, Governors and lawmakers, mainly Republican, have drafted bills that will see public funding of universities conditional on, among other things, protecting Jewish students and removing financial aid to students promoting terrorism. This has already been impactful, as several top-name universities have banned or suspended the (pro-Hamas) Students for Justice in Palestine from their campuses.
Authors note: Jewish students and those who support them are starting to respond to antisemitism for the first time in decades. They’re sick of living in constant fear when they stroll around campus.. State and federal legislators are currently debating legislation that would defund universities that fail to stop this hatred. To safeguard students, donors are also starting to show some muscle. Universities have demonstrated over and again that they have no genuine motivation to reform until there is a significant threat to their funding. By spreading awareness, contacting donors and local and national politicians, everyone can contribute to the fight against campus antisemitism. Let them know that you feel unsafe and uncomfortable with your tax dollars going to such organizations until significant change is made. I can tell you from experience that elected officials pay more attention to constituents who take the time to reach out, than those who don’t. Share this and related articles that bring attention to this crucial topic with your friends, congregations, and/or social media.
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