McCain sends a powerful message about support for Israel and the fight against antisemitism.
The top-tier event at Cipriani Wall St, hosted by entrepreneur and activist Ari Ackerman, featured a musical performance by popular Israeli singer Yuval Raphael.
As political commentator, author, and former host of “The View,” Meghan McCain accepted the Champion of Israel Award at the American Friends of Magen David Adom Gala at Cipriani Wall Street, she offered words of support for Israel and the Jewish people that resonated deeply with the close to 600 AFMDA supporters gathered at the event.
“No matter how much of the world — motivated by moral cowardice, material interest, or the sublimated antisemitism that still stalks the globe — turns away from Israel, I will not. I will never,” she vowed.
She further spoke of her own connection to Jewish traditions through her father’s longtime friendship with the late Senator Joe Lieberman and her visits to Israel. McCain noted the sharp contrast between those who seek to destroy others and those — like the medics of Magen David Adom (MDA) — who work to save lives.
“If Israel were to lose its war — God forbid — the armies of darkness would march toward us here in America, too. I want my children to grow up in a country that is good and just and free. And the radicals who threaten that don’t just hate Israel; they hate this country, Western values, freedom and democracy too,” she said.
Entrepreneur, philanthropist and Jewish activist Ari Ackerman hosted the evening’s program, which also featured inspiring words from Ambassador Gilad Erdan, MDA’s global president; a personal account of saving lives by senior paramedic Raphael Herbst; as well as a musical performance by Yuval Raphael, who recently represented Israel at Eurovision. Accounting and financial services firm KPMG was warmly recognized for their generous contributions to the organization.
As MDA increases its levels of preparedness following years of unrelenting attacks, the evening raised significant funds to support Israel’s national emergency services system. Funds will go to augmenting the fleet of rescue vehicles, training and equipment for Israel’s paramedics and EMTs, and protecting the nation’s blood supply through the Marcus Blood Center.
“Magen David Adom’s extraordinary ability to save lives, as the world witnessed during Operation Rising Lion, is thanks, above all, to our supporters here in the United States. For 95 years, you have empowered MDA to become the world’s premier lifesaving organization. Because the home front was in the best hands, Israel’s leaders could make bold, decisive choices on the frontlines—knowing our people were protected,” said Ambassador Erdan, in his remarks.
“The last two years have been among the most difficult and painful for Israel and the Diaspora, and the support shown by our friends has never been more crucial,” said AFMDA CEO Catherine Reed. “I was deeply moved by the many supporters who came out to show their passion for Magen David Adom’s lifesaving work.”
