By COLlive reporter
President Donald Trump hosted two Chanukah receptions at the White House this week, using the occasion to speak about rising antisemitism worldwide and to reaffirm his support for the Jewish people and Israel.
Opening his remarks, Trump referenced the recent terror attack at Chabad’s Chanukah gathering in Bondi Beach, Sydney, Australia. 15 people were murdered, including 2 Chabad Shluchim. Australian police said the father and son shooters were “inspired by Islamic State.”
Trump offered condolences to the victims and warned that hatred toward Jews remains a global threat. He praised what he called the enduring resilience and faith of the Jewish people, saying Chanukah continues to symbolize strength in the face of persecution.
“I will always be a friend and a champion of the Jewish people,” he told attendees.
The president also touched on political trends in Washington, expressing concern about growing antisemitism in Congress and claiming that support for Israel has weakened among some lawmakers.
During his speech, Trump listed several actions he took as president in support of Israel, including moving the US Embassy to Jerusalem and recognizing Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights.
Rabbi Levi Shemtov, Senior Chabad Shliach in Washington, DC and Executive Vice President of American Friends of Lubavitch, was honored with leading the lighting of the Menorah.
Rabbi Shemtov noted that his wife’s family lives in Sydney, making the massacre even more personal to him. He praised President Trump’s compassion and solidarity with the Jewish people.
“You don’t just express solidarity, you practice solidarity with the Jewish people,” Rabbi Shemtov said. “And you practice solidarity with Israel, perhaps in a way we’ve never seen before, to the extent that many people say that you may very well be …the strongest the deepest friend that Israel and the Jewish people have ever had here in the White House.”
Several prominent supporters were invited to speak, including conservative radio host Mark Levin, who referred to Trump as the nation’s “first Jewish president,” and philanthropist Miriam Adelson, who praised his record on Israel.
The gathering was smaller than in past years due to renovations in the White House, but it included a kosher Chanukah feast.
VIDEO
Rabbi Levi Shemtov remarks
Full event replay
thank you so much Mr. President G-d bless you G-D bless the USA