From May 18-20, 2025 The Plenary Assembly of the World Jewish Congress (WJC) was held in Jerusalem to elect the new administration of the supreme body of international Jewry.
More than 350 representatives from 70 Jewish communities around the world participated in the Assembly in a two-day discussion and decision-making session with the participation of Israeli officials and international figures.
On behalf of KISE, Dr. Leon Saltiel, former member of the Board of Directors, attended the Assembly. The Plenary re-elected Ronald Lauder, President of the Organization since 2007, to the Presidency of the WJC.
In his speech, Ronald Lauder referred to his vision for the next four years and particularly emphasized the resilience and unity of Jews everywhere in the world after October 7, 2023: "Just as Israel failed to predict Hamas' surprise attack, so we failed to predict the all-out attack on the mentality of the free world. Because of this, Israel was not only attacked on October 7, the entire Jewish world was attacked on October 8," he said, referring to the wave of anti-Semitism that erupted the day after the attack. (Video of the speech HERE).
In a special ceremony, Israeli President Isaac Herzog awarded Lauder the Presidential Medal of Honor in recognition of his lifelong dedication and commitment to the Jewish people and the State of Israel.
Highlights of the event: speeches by Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee, former Hamas hostage Tal Shoam, who was released after 505 days of captivity in Gaza. The Assembly concluded with the adoption of resolutions on support for Israel, combating online hate and anti-Semitism, Holocaust Remembrance, interfaith relations, empowering young Jewish leaders, etc.
- WJC President Ronald S. Lauder Delivers Landmark Address Following Re-Election at Plenary Assembly in Jerusalem HERE