Former Vice President Mike Pence addressed the Iranian American Jewish Federation of New York gala at Lincoln Center, declaring solidarity with Israel. "We stand with Israel because her cause is our cause," He said. "Her values are our values. Her fight is our fight. We stand with Israel because we believe in right over wrong, in good over evil. We stand with Israel because like millions of Americans through all generations, we hold fast to that ancient promise, that those who bless her will be blessed."
Federation president Steven Khadavi introduced Pence and, noting previous keynote speakers included former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley, asked whether a Republican 2024 ticket pairing Pence with either might be possible.
Opening remarks came from Noa Tishby, an actress and author of "Israel: A Simple Guide to the Most Misunderstood Country on Earth" Who served as Israel's first special envoy for combating antisemitism and delegitimization. She said antisemitism has become increasingly visible. "Antisemitism was always there, of course, but it was something that was hidden from view," She said. "There was something to be ashamed of. I couldn't have imagined where we would be now, when classic antisemitic tropes are being spewed proudly by cultural leaders."
Pence praised his wife Karen and committed to supporting Israel. "Wherever the Lord leads our little family in the days ahead, we will stand with the People of Israel," He said. He also commended the federation for raising more than $70 million for humanitarian and educational efforts.
As a Christian, Pence said Israel has held special significance for him since arriving in Congress in 2001. He recalled that late Holocaust survivor Tom Lantos, a former California House member, praised his pro-Israel speeches.
Pence highlighted his administration's achievements, including the killing of Quds Force chief Qasem Soleimani and relocating the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem. He credited ambassador David Friedman, a former real estate lawyer, with completing the embassy move in nine months despite predictions it would take a decade and cost billions. Seeing his name inscribed on the building, he said, was "one of the greatest honors of my life."
Pence also addressed Iranian protests, stating he would support the cause of freedom there. Israel's consul general in New York, Asaf Zamir, praised Pence as a friend of the Jewish state.
Pence noted his new book, "So Help me God," And said: "In so many ways, I truly believe Israel's very existence is proof the promises of God are true."
He expressed pride in what he called the "toughest anti-BDS bill" In America and the administration's withdrawal from the U.N. Human Rights Council over "blatant anti-Israel bias," As well as an executive order against antisemitism and withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal.