Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion announced Tuesday evening that a major square in Jerusalem would be named after the late Sheldon Adelson, during a gala dinner in New York ahead of the Israel Hayom Summit. In a wide-ranging speech, Lion highlighted the capital's development boom, addressed the fight against antisemitism and called for unity among the Jewish people.
The gala brought together a host of senior figures, including Israel Hayom Publisher Prof. Miriam Adelson, US Ambassador to the UN Mike Waltz, Željka Cvijanović, a member of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina, President Donald Trump's Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism Ambassador Rabbi Yehuda Kaploun, former Mossad Director David (Dedi) Barnea, Israel Hayom Group CEO Amir Finkelstein and a special guest whose presence moved the audience, former Hamas hostage Avinatan Or.
Opening his remarks, Lion reflected on the atmosphere in the host city. "It's wonderful to be here in New York, surrounded by so many friends of Israel," he said. "Not that I ever doubted we still had friends here, but given some of the voices coming out of this city, it's good to be reminded."
He then delivered an upbeat message from Jerusalem. "I bring greetings from Jerusalem, Israel's eternal capital, and good news: Jerusalem is moving forward! In October, Colombia opened the 10th embassy in Jerusalem. Nauru opened its embassy in September, and in July, Israel and the United States reached an agreement on the site for the permanent US Embassy compound. These are not just diplomatic milestones. They are historic."
Lion went on to detail the transformation taking place across the city. "Within Jerusalem itself, the changes are no less exciting. Last year, we issued building permits for more than 8,400 housing units. We are developing high-tech centers, including in East Jerusalem, expanding employment opportunities and building a modern light rail network. Tourism is also returning: In August, tourist overnight stays more than doubled compared with August of last year."
Lion stressed that "Jerusalem is holy to three religions, and it is a city of opportunity for all its communities."
As an example, he noted that he had inaugurated a new community sports center in East Jerusalem the previous week, the first of its kind in that part of the city. A new rehabilitation center for wounded Israel Defense Forces personnel had also opened. "These are just two examples of how Jerusalem is leading the way in building for all its communities, for the benefit of every resident," he said.
A highlight of the evening came when Lion made an emotional announcement honoring the legacy of Sheldon Adelson. Addressing the late philanthropist's widow, Prof. Miriam Adelson, the mayor said: "Sheldon believed in Israel, and he turned that belief into action. He played a decisive and historic role in bringing the US Embassy to Jerusalem. I am proud to announce that Jerusalem will name a major square in our new Moradot Arnona neighborhood after him.
"Dear Miriam, how wonderful it is to be here with you. You and Sheldon have given so much to Jerusalem. Through your leadership, generosity and dedication, you continue to make an extraordinary difference. This square is our modest way of saying a heartfelt thank you to both of you."
Lion also addressed New Yorkers directly, urging them to confront rising antisemitism and hostility toward Israel. "New York has a magnificent Jewish history, which makes the antisemitism, intimidation and attacks against Jewish communities here all the more painful. A city that celebrates diversity must defend Jewish life with equal determination. Public leaders must confront extremism, not give it room to flourish. Democracy is about more than elections. It means protecting freedom and every community."
As he approached the end of his speech, Lion delivered a message of reconciliation and national solidarity. "Jerusalem reminds us of everything that binds us together. Now, after the elections in Israel and a long period of painful divisions, our strength begins with the peace we build among ourselves.
"I pray that from Jerusalem, the city that is united together, a message of unity will reach all our people. When we stand together as one, we are stronger against our enemies. That unity is our common foundation, allowing Israel to continue growing, prospering and being a light unto the nations."
Lion concluded with a direct appeal to Jews around the world to make aliyah and settle in Jerusalem. "To my Jewish brothers and sisters in New York and around the world: Make aliyah and make Jerusalem your home. We look forward to welcoming you home with open arms. May Jerusalem's greatest chapters still lie ahead."
