NJDC “Thrilled” by Swift Confirmation of Shapiro as Ambassador to Israel
Listed in: Israel, Press Releases
The National Jewish Democratic Council (NJDC) today applauded the Senate’s confirmation of Daniel Shapiro to be the next United States Ambassador to Israel. NJDC President and CEO David A. Harris said following his confirmation:
“The leadership, staff and supporters of the National Jewish Democratic Council are thrilled that Dan Shapiro has been swiftly confirmed as the next U.S. Ambassador to Israel. His expertise and knowledge of Israel and the Middle East—along with his previous service as President Barack Obama’s deeply trusted advisor on the Middle East— make him the perfect person to ascend to this crucial position and represent the United States’ interests in Israel. Obama’s decision to appoint Ambassador Shapiro is a reflection of how seriously the President views our relationship with Israel and how committed he is to further strengthening it. Supporters of a strong U.S.-Israel relationship should be delighted that the newest Ambassador to Israel will have the ear of the President as we enter into a period where a strong U.S.-Israel relationship is needed more than ever before.
The entire NJDC family wishes Ambassador Shapiro and his family the very best of luck as they represent our country and begin this new chapter of their lives.”
Prior to his ambassadorship, Shapiro was the senior director for the Middle East and North Africa on the United States National Security Council and one of President Barack Obama’s most trusted advisors. For the last two years, Shapiro has had the ear of the President on matters related to the Middle East and, prior to his tenure in the White House, he was one of Obama’s most senior advisors on the campaign trail.
Shapiro has also served as an important link between the White House and the American Jewish community on matters pertaining to Israel’s security. Shapiro’s appointment quickly gained the support of Jewish communal and pro-Israel groups from across the political spectrum. His appointment and the Jewish communal praise that accompanied it symbolize the care and seriousness that the Obama Administration applies to the U.S.-Israel relationship. Further, the reaction to Shapiro’s appointment speaks volumes about the trust and confidence that American Jewish leaders have in the Obama Administration when it comes to safeguarding Israel.
