IAC reviews past, looks to the future

By Jeff Margolis

The mission of the Israel Advocacy Committee (IAC) of Greater Naples is to provide the community with information and insights as to what is happening in Israel today. The committee, sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, seeks to provide films, speakers and thought provoking programs that explore such issues as Israel’s security, current politics and the cultural scene.

The current 2020-21 season commenced with a presentation by Ambassador Dennis Ross and Professor David Makovsky, which featured a discussion of the historic and future views of the Middle East and what changes in policy may occur under a President Biden administration.

Ambassador Ross dissected the role of the U.S. in world events and its leadership position in the Middle East. Professor Makovsky examined the role of the Palestinians in the coming years with a new U.S. President. Will they still be working toward a two-state solution or a “one state for two peoples” dynamic? He also went on to acknowledge the success of the Abraham Accords.

Both speakers warned of the possibility of a fourth election in Israel.

The second program of the season featured Galit Peleg, the Interim Consul General for the Consulate General’s office in Miami, who spoke to Zoom viewers on the changing landscape of Israel.

IAC chair Harvey Cohen noted, “Over the past years, we’ve been fortunate to bring in-person programs (not Zoom) with topics of interest, from Eric Mandel, who addressed the Palestinian leadership’s agenda vs. a truthful path to peace. We’ve also heard from Jerusalem Post journalist Herb Keinon and Israeli progressive representatives of the Hand-to-Hand schools as well as the Arava Institute for Environmental Studies.”

The committee continues to review and discuss programs and speakers for future presentations. Zoom programming will continue until it is deemed safe for all of us to gather in person.

The current members of the IAC are Chair Harvey Cohen and members Ron Agronin, Myra Benedikt, Fran Goldman, Monica Goodwin, Diane Hahn, Jerry Kumin MD, Jeff Margolis, Ilya Prizel, Michael Rubenstein, Mark Schloss, Goldie Wetcher and Reneé Bialek, Program Director of the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples.

Stand with Israel

The State of Florida recently announced that it has approved a design for a “Stand with Israel” license plate. Designed by an artist from Boca Raton, the new plate will become available as soon as there are 3,000 requests for it. There is an additional charge for this unique plate. Contact the Division of Motor Vehicles for details.

For information about IAC programs or to make suggestions for future events, please contact program chair Harvey Cohen at hwcohen@gmail.com.

The IAC is here to shine the light of education, information and dialogue so our community members are better advocates for Israel.