Governor Christie addressed the annual Republican Jewish Coalition Summit by calling for strength and leadership amidst the Israel-Hamas conflict, asserting that America must show unwavering support. “When our allies need help, America can’t say maybe, America has to say yes.”
When it comes to Israel, Governor Christie explained that there are certain principles that everyone should stand by: “One, Israel has the absolute right and obligation to protect its territorial integrity and protect the safety and security of everyone and its people. Second, Israel has the right and obligation to take every military step necessary to eliminate Hamas as a threat tomorrow and everyday beyond tomorrow and three, Israel must focus on the next enemy.”
The rise of antisemitism within the borders of the United States, especially on college campuses, is inciting fear and violence: “It is not free speech but hate speech” said Governor Christie. “Not one Jewish child should have to hide in their dorm or their apartment because of fear of their safety or fear of ridicule, and yet, on college campuses all over this country, that is happening today…” No Jewish adult or child should have to practice their faith in fear, he declared.
The division that exists on both sides of the political aisle is a point of concern for Governor Christie: “The more divided we’ve become, the smaller we’ve become.” He calls for Americans “…to be willing to stand up and do things that matter, not only for us inside our own country, but for the rest of the folks in the world as well.” American leadership is indispensable and must remain strong for good to win and evil to lose. It’s about freedom, liberty and what is right, Governor Christie concluded.