When US Ambassador to Israel Richard Jones arrived at his
home for a visit, Maran HaRav Eliashiv shlita asked
the Ambassador to convey his appreciation for the US' ongoing
support of Israel, calling it a "kingdom of chessed,"
while at the same time stressing the dangers Am Yisroel faces
from its many enemies.
In his remarks to the Ambassador, translated by former Beitar
Illit Mayor Rabbi Yitzchok Pindrus, HaRav Eliashiv noted that
the US works to assist Am Yisroel both in Middle East affairs
and in diplomatic efforts for Jews in other parts of the
world.
Maran also urged the US to continue its efforts, as an
emissary of Heaven, to protect the Jews. He noted the fears
Am Yisroel faces in light of Iran's accelerated efforts to
develop nuclear weapons, saying that the US should do
everything in its power to ensure the survival of Am Yisroel
in Eretz Yisroel.
Ambassador Jones assured HaRav Eliashiv that the US is also
deeply concerned by Muslim extremism and would work to ensure
the safety and well-being of world Jewry. He noted that
although the US would like to see Israel and the Palestinians
reach a peace agreement, all diplomatic efforts being made
are based on a genuine concern for the safety of Israel.
At the end of the visit, Maran blessed the Ambassador for
success in his job. Accompanying the visit were Alex Dinales,
director of the American Center in Jerusalem, Von Ridiad of
the Political Department at the US Embassy in Tel Aviv and
Rabbi Mattisyahu Cheshin, who serves as a liaison between the
chareidi community and foreign embassies.
