Morton Klein, President of the Zionist Organization of America (ZOA), addressed the JNS International Policy Summit, speaking about increasing pressures against the Jewish state. He stated that international campaigns questioning Israel's legitimacy target the Zionist movement and warned about threats posed by Iran.
According to Klein, supporters of Israel must more actively combat propaganda and disinformation seeking to weaken the Jewish state. He explained the essence of Zionism as the right of the Jewish people to national self-determination in their historical homeland, recalling that this right is recognized by international agreements.
Defending Zionism begins with accurately explaining what it is.
Klein emphasized that approaches attempting to portray Israel as illegitimate ignore the historical and legal foundations of the Zionist movement. He firmly rejected accusations against the Jewish state such as genocide, apartheid, and illegal occupation, calling them part of a broader international campaign.
The ZOA leader also criticized claims of "settler violence." He stated that such accusations fail to distinguish between criminal acts and other incidents, thereby distorting reality.
In his speech, Klein paid special attention to the threat posed by Iran, stating that Tehran's regional policies and nuclear program pose a serious risk to both Israel and the United States. He criticized diplomatic initiatives with Iran, noting that reducing pressure on the regime would further strengthen its position.
Morton Klein also touched upon the issue of Jerusalem, emphasizing the city's historical and religious significance for the Jewish people and rejecting the idea of international negotiations regarding its status. Finally, he highlighted Israel's achievements in technology, science, and demographics since its establishment in 1948 as proof of the national revival of the Jewish people.
The values Israel defends are morally justified and righteous.