On Monday night, President Joe Biden hosted Jewish community leaders for his final Hanukkah celebration at the White House, ending his last formal Jewish gathering as president with a message of hope and unwavering support for Israel.
Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff began the evening by reflecting on Jewish holidays and the planting of a pomegranate tree in honor of the October 7 victims and hostages. Emhoff spoke out against rising antisemitism, urging the Jewish community to stand proud and unafraid.
Biden acknowledged the somber context of this year’s Hanukkah, marking the second since the October 7 horrors and a global surge in antisemitism. He reaffirmed his commitment to securing the release of all hostages, mentioning that over 100 have been freed so far. He also highlighted his administration’s efforts to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon to ensure the safe return of residents.
Closing the evening, Biden expressed his unyielding dedication to Israel’s safety and right to exist as a nation, urging the community to “hold on to that hope,” shine optimism, and keep the faith. “May God bless you, Happy Hanukkah,” he concluded.
