Trump Lauds Pro-Israel Mega-Donor Miriam Adelson During Knesset Address
In a significant address to the Israeli parliament, the Knesset, U.S. President Donald Trump celebrated a recent ceasefire agreement in Gaza while highlighting the contributions of key American figures in the peace process. Among those recognized was Miriam Adelson, a prominent pro-Israel mega-donor whose financial backing has played a crucial role in shaping U.S. political landscapes.
A Salute to Supporters
During his speech, Trump expressed gratitude to American diplomats, military leaders, and regional allies who contributed to the ceasefire. He specifically acknowledged Miriam Adelson, noting her substantial wealth and unwavering support for Israel. “She has $60 billion in her account, and she loves Israel,” Trump remarked, drawing laughter from the audience. He humorously recounted a past conversation with Adelson, where he inquired whether she loved the United States or Israel more. Her refusal to answer, he suggested, might indicate a complex loyalty.
Adelson, a Las Vegas casino magnate, has been a significant financial force in American politics, contributing over $106 million to Preserve America, a super PAC that supported Trump’s election campaign. Her presence in the Knesset was met with a standing ovation, underscoring her influence and the esteem in which she is held by pro-Israel advocates.
From Physician to Political Powerhouse
Miriam Adelson was born in Tel Aviv in 1945, the daughter of Polish immigrants. Initially trained as a physician specializing in addiction treatment, her life took a dramatic turn when she married Sheldon Adelson, a self-made billionaire who transformed the Las Vegas Sands into a global casino empire. Following Sheldon’s death in 2021, Miriam assumed majority control of the company, which operates major resorts in Singapore and Macao. The Adelson family has long been known for their substantial contributions to Republican candidates and pro-Israel initiatives, with Sheldon being one of the party’s top donors.
In 2022, the family sold their iconic Las Vegas Strip properties for $6.25 billion, further solidifying their financial clout. Recently, Miriam also acquired majority ownership of the Dallas Mavericks, a move that has drawn attention in both sports and political circles.
Influencing U.S. Foreign Policy
Trump’s relationship with the Adelsons has been pivotal in shaping his administration’s Israel policy. He often recounts how the couple frequently visited the White House during his presidency, advocating for pro-Israel measures. “Miriam and Sheldon would come into the Oval Office. They had more trips to the White House than anybody else,” Trump stated, emphasizing their significant influence.
The Adelsons have been staunch supporters of right-wing causes in the U.S., contributing over $600 million to Trump’s campaigns and other Republican candidates since 2015. Their commitment to Zionism and close ties with conservative figures have positioned them as key players in American politics.
Following the October 7 attacks, Miriam Adelson’s rhetoric intensified. In a column for Israel Hayom, a newspaper she owns, she called for a dismissal of Israel’s critics, labeling them as enemies. “Foreign fans of Hamas are our enemies, the ideological enablers in the West of those who would go to any length to eradicate us from the Middle East,” she wrote, reflecting a hardline stance that resonates with many in the Israeli government.
A Legacy of Influence
Miriam Adelson’s backing of Trump and the Republican Party has forged strong connections with the current administration. The couple was instrumental in pushing for significant policy changes, such as the relocation of the U.S. Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem and the recognition of Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights. In recognition of her contributions, Trump awarded her the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2018.
At a recent campaign event, Adelson urged Jewish voters to support Trump, framing it as a “sacred duty” in gratitude for his administration’s actions regarding Israel. Her influence extends beyond mere financial contributions; she has actively participated in shaping the narrative around U.S.-Israel relations.
Controversial Stances and Public Perception
Adelson’s views have not been without controversy. She has publicly criticized pro-Palestinian demonstrations, describing them as “ghastly gatherings” of radical activists. This rhetoric has drawn both support and backlash, highlighting the polarized nature of U.S. politics regarding Israel and Palestine.
Her strong advocacy for Israel aligns with a broader trend among certain segments of the American Jewish community, particularly those who prioritize a hardline approach to security and diplomacy in the region. This perspective often contrasts sharply with more progressive views that advocate for Palestinian rights and a two-state solution.
Conclusion
Miriam Adelson’s prominence in American politics and her unwavering support for Israel have made her a key figure in shaping U.S. foreign policy. As Trump continues to navigate the complexities of international relations, the influence of mega-donors like Adelson will likely remain a significant factor in the political landscape. Her recent recognition during Trump’s address to the Knesset serves as a reminder of the intertwined nature of wealth, politics, and foreign policy in the United States, particularly concerning Israel.
