Israel’s Ambassador to the United States Michael Herzog told hundreds of Christian students in Washington DC this weekend that after 15 months of war, he has concluded, “The American people stand with us.”
Herzog made the comment during one of the final speeches of his term as ambassador, delivered during a weekend of Israel advocacy organized with the Passages and Inspire organizations.
Known as the “Christian Birthright,” Passages has brought more than 11,000 Christian students from North America to Israel for first-time visits. The initiative aims to strengthen religious identity and foster friendship with Israel and the Jewish people.
Inspire creates digital resources and immersive experiences designed to make Bible reading simple, enjoyable and transformational for people of all ages.
“Despite all the noise and protests, after 15 months of war, my conclusion is clear: the American people stand with us,” Herzog told the gathering.
“They understand right from wrong and recognize what is at stake. We have witnessed unprecedented political and diplomatic support from both sides of Congress, especially in combating the blood libels at the ICJ and ICC.”
Herzog added that he has “high expectations” for “continued cooperation” with the incoming Trump Administration.
“There are two major opportunities ahead: First, pushing back against the Iranian nuclear program, which poses a grave threat to Israel, the region, the US, and the free world. This should begin with sanctions but must also include a credible military option,” he warned.
“Second, there is an opportunity to normalize relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia. I believe the door is open, and this could be a game-changer,” he emphasized.
Herzog told the students their campus advocacy for Israel is crucial: “We value life, while our enemies value death. We focus on the future, while they seek to revive the dark past. “This is a clash of civilizations,” he added.
The event took place at Museum of the Bible, where the ambassador and his wife Shirin Herzog were presented with a copy of the Afghan Liturgical Quire, the oldest Hebrew book in the world. This medieval manuscript, dating back to the 8th century, includes prayers, poems, and the oldest known Passover Haggadah. The gift was presented by Jackie & Steve Green, Co-Founder & Chairman of Museum of the Bible.
“The Afghan Liturgical Quire is one of the most cherished treasures in the museum’s collection, and it speaks to the Jewish people’s continuity, resilience and excellence,” Green said while presenting the gift to Ambassador Herzog.
“We all know that it has not been easy for you Ambassador, but you leave your position knowing that the US–Israel relationship is stronger and more resilient than ever.”
During the weekend the students were scheduled visit Museum of the Bible, the Holocaust Memorial Museum, and hear from Israeli tour guides before assembling hundreds of “Kits for Kids” to send to Israel for children forced to spend time in bomb shelters.
“Now, more than ever, we are seeing our Christian friends step up, whether by visiting Israel to show solidarity or by standing with Jewish students on North American campuses,” said Rivka Kidron, Co-Founder of Passages and former Advisor to Israel’s Prime Minister. “Passages is working harder than ever to combat the delegitimization of the Jewish state on university campuses.”
