During an official diplomatic visit to the United States, Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu arrived Wednesday afternoon at The Shul of Bal Harbour together with his wife, Sara, for a reception attended by a large crowd and held under heavy security.

In remarks at the event, Netanyahu thanked an Israeli delegation that he said included Minister Miri Regev and senior diplomatic representatives, and he spoke of the significance of being among “proud Jews” together with supportive friends of the Jewish people and the State of Israel.

Netanyahu was welcomed by the community’s shliach and rabbi, Rabbi Shneur Zalman Lipskar, who continues the work of his father, the late shliach Rabbi Sholom Ber Lipskar. Rabbi Lipskar reminded the Prime Minister of his momentous meeting with the Rebbe while serving as an ambassador to the UN, and what the Rebbe had told him.

The Prime Minister described the visit to the Chabad shul as a spiritual point of strength during a difficult period. He focused his message on what he called the pillars that protect the Jewish future, saying that “unity, strength, and resolve” are essential. He connected that theme to Jewish history, including the Holocaust, and recognized a Holocaust survivor in attendance. Netanyahu repeated the message he said he shared with him, “Never again,” adding, “Never again is now,” and explaining that Jewish strength was built so that enemies cannot succeed.

Turning to the present, Netanyahu addressed Israel’s response since Simchas Torah, October 7, praising the courage of IDF soldiers and the unity of the nation. He also pledged to bring back the remains of Roi Muscal, which drew strong applause from the audience.

Netanyahu added that on the diplomatic front, Israel will continue seeking to strengthen regional alliances and expand what he called “peace for peace,” while safeguarding Israel’s security and strength.

The reception included a large crowd from the Miami Jewish community. Also in attendance were Leo Terrell, Rep. Randy Fine, Steven Meiner, Senator Ashley Moody, Florida Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins, and former Bal Harbour Mayor Gabe Groisman.

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