US Ambassador to Israel James B. Cunningham, paid a visit, along with Alex Daniels director of the American Cultural Center, and an entourage, to the home of Maran HaRav Eliashiv shlita, following a request by the Ambassador to hear Maran's remarks on the state of Israel and the needs of the chareidi community. HaRav Yosef Efrati was also on hand for the visit.
The meeting was held eight months after Cunningham assumed his post. At the start of the visit the Ambassador told HaRav Eliashiv via Jerusalem Deputy Mayor Rabbi Yitzchok Pindrus, serving as interpreter, that he had come to get to know the chareidi community and learn about its needs. In response HaRav Eliashiv said, "Merubim tzorchei amcho" (i.e. "Your nation's needs are numerous," paraphrasing Brochos 29b).
The Ambassador then asked for any advice HaRav Eliashiv might offer to help him carry out his many responsibilities. Maran replied that if he strives to do good and work for the sake of the Jewish people he would succeed, adding that everything depends on good will.
When Cunningham asked which matters need to be addressed, HaRav Eliashiv noted the state of security is cause for deep concern, saying the residents of Eretz Hakodesh are in constant danger.
The Ambassador replied that the issue of security is of concern to President Obama as well, saying Israel's security is among the President's top priorities.
When asked for a brochoh at the end of the visit HaRav Eliashiv blessed him for success in his post and that he have the merit to act for the sake of the residents of Eretz Kodesh.
The visit was coordinated through the efforts of R' Mattisyahu Cheshin, who works extensively to promote Jewish affairs through the US Embassy in Israel.
