The Media Line: Israeli President Herzog Launches Global Jewish Unity Initiative

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Israeli President Herzog Launches Global Jewish Unity Initiative

By The Media Line Staff

Israeli President Isaac Herzog launched the Voice of the People initiative on Sunday, calling for global Jewish unity and collaboration to address the rise in antisemitism and other challenges facing Jewish communities. The virtual event, which featured a conversation with actress Gal Gadot, marked the opening of applications for a global Jewish council. The initiative aims to strengthen Jewish communities and foster cooperation.

Herzog stressed, “Out of this crisis, there will be opportunity,” referring to the aftermath of the October 7 Hamas attacks. Gadot added, “We will prevail, but the only way is by being united.”

The Voice of the People initiative will tackle key issues such as antisemitism, relations between Israel and Jewish communities abroad, and security concerns. The council will comprise 150 Jewish leaders who will meet monthly over two years, culminating in a major conference in Israel in March 2025.

Israeli footballer Daniel Lifshitz, whose grandparents were taken hostage during the October 7 attacks, shared his personal story, stating, “Peace itself is being held hostage.” His remarks emphasized the need for global solidarity in the face of such challenges. The event also featured powerful performances by Michal Greenglick, who lost her brother during the fighting in Gaza, and poet Aija Mayrock.

Shirel Dagan-Levy, CEO of the Voice of the People, emphasized the importance of unity, security, and empowering Jewish leaders. Alongside the council, the initiative will engage Jewish communities through virtual meetings and collaborative research projects, investing in future Jewish leadership.