Capital District Times

Elise Stefanik, the United Nations ambassador-designate, has expressed her intent to challenge what she describes as a "den of antisemitism" within the organization. During a speech at an Endowment for Middle East Truth (EMET) event, Stefanik criticized the UN's actions and vowed to address them upon assuming her role.

Stefanik highlighted specific instances where she believes the UN failed Israel and the United States. She cited examples such as UN Women removing a post condemning Hamas' attack on October 7, 2023, and accused various UN offices of aligning with Hamas.

Recently announced by President-elect Donald Trump as his choice for US ambassador to the UN, Stefanik emphasized her commitment to Trump's policies. She stated that if Trump were currently in office, recent events at the UN would not have occurred.

"I will stand up for President Trump’s America First, peace through strength policies and bring moral truth and crystal clear moral clarity at the United Nations on Day One," she asserted.

Stefanik also recalled her visit to Israel in May, where she addressed the Knesset and toured sites affected by violence from Hamas. Her experiences reinforced her belief in Israel's significance to both itself and the United States.

Reflecting on a previous congressional hearing about antisemitism on college campuses, Stefanik criticized certain university leaders for their responses regarding campus policies against calls for genocide. She described these responses as indicative of broader societal issues.

The congresswoman noted potential international support from figures like Hungary’s Ambassador to the US Szabolcs Takács. He expressed optimism about future US-Hungarian relations under Trump's administration.

At the EMET event, Shabbos Kestenbaum, a Harvard University student who testified before Congress about campus antisemitism, was also honored. He praised Stefanik's leadership during challenging times on campus.

In closing her speech, Stefanik emphasized ongoing efforts to secure freedom for hostages held by Hamas. "We must not stop and we will not stop until every hostage is brought home," she declared.

Stefanik has received bipartisan support following Trump's nomination of her as UN ambassador. Pro-Israel Democrats like Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) and Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D-Fla.) have expressed approval of her appointment.