The Israeli-American Council (IAC) has announced its unprecedented bid to compete in the World Jewish Congress (WJC) elections, marking the first time an Israeli-American organization seeks representation in Zionism's central democratic institution. This strategic move aims to amplify the Israeli-American community's voice in shaping Jewish-Zionist policy and reinforcing the critical Israel-US relationship.
Led by Elan Carr, former US Special Envoy to Combat Antisemitism, the IAC has established a significant presence across the United States with operations in 58 college campuses and over 100 communities nationwide. The organization offers comprehensive programming serving diverse demographics from children to business leaders.
The IAC has built an impressive track record of advocacy achievements, including organizing America's largest pro-Israel conference and creating the powerful "Hostage Table" installation in New York's Times Square – a visual reminder that dramatically increased global awareness about Israelis held captive. The organization has also taken a leading role in countering campus antisemitism by providing crucial support networks for Jewish students facing harassment and intimidation.
Working through its advocacy arm "IAC for Action," the organization has successfully championed 39 anti-BDS laws across multiple states, alongside fourteen pieces of legislation incorporating the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism and nine formal resolutions addressing related concerns. Current initiatives focus on expanding anti-BDS legislation to specifically target academic boycotts while advocating for similar protections in additional states.
The IAC's grassroots approach includes collaboration with city governments to block boycott initiatives and coordinating nationwide public information campaigns supporting Israel. Simultaneously, the organization remains committed to strengthening Jewish education and fostering Zionist identity among younger generations.
Danny Alpert, one of the IAC's founding members, highlighted the significance of their congressional candidacy: "Since October 7, we have witnessed an unprecedented wave of antisemitism, alongside strategic challenges for Israel. The Israeli-American community has proven that it is not only connected to Israel but that it leads the struggle for Israel's image and place in the world. This is an opportunity for our community to influence the future of our children and grandchildren and strengthen the inseparable ties between the State of Israel and the US."
