Former President George W. Bush told leaders of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations that he did not trust the Iranian regime to change its intentions toward Israel, according to several people in attendance.
“I will not believe in Iran’s peaceful intentions until they can irrevocably prove that it’s true,” Bush told the 1,200 guests at the gala event at the Waldorf Astoria in New York City. “The United States’ foreign policy must be clear eyed and understand that until the form of government changes in Iran, it is unlikely that their intentions toward Israel will change.”
The event, held Tuesday night, honored several past presidents of the umbrella organization and its longtime executive vice-chairman, Malcolm Hoenlein.
Bush’s appearance had not been publicized, and attendees were asked not to record or tape his comments.
The program also featured video testimonials from President Obama and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as well as remarks from several Israeli and U.S. politicians, and Jewish notables.
