The phrase “only in America” comes readily to mind. Only in the USA would 18,000 delegates gather for this glitzy, loud and proud pro-Israel conference, also attended by two thirds of the country’s Congress.
Nothing is held back as delegates regularly jump to their feet to enthusiastically applaud the likes of Nikki Haley, crew members of the Israeli space mission and numerous personal testimonies of those whose lives have been touched by Aipac’s mission. And all of this in the most massive hall you have ever seen.
It is with pride that I represented the UK as part of the World Jewish Congress delegation, and it was with close interest that I listened to speeches in support of the Jewish state. It was refreshing to be in this kind of atmosphere following a year in which anti-Zionist antisemitism has hit the headlines at home with monotonous regularity, and during which time the spectre of hatred against Jews has surfaced across Europe and beyond.
The highlight had to be the honour of being a witness to the tremendous reception given to Joan Ryan MP, who as Chair of Labour Friends of Israel, came to Aipac as a leading fighter against anti-Jewish racism. From the moment Joan strode onto the stage, she owned it. Very real, very British and very clear, she was rewarded with warmth and standing ovation after standing ovation.
