Jerusalem: In a highly personal and at times humorous address to Israel’s parliament, U.S. President Donald Trump lauded billionaire philanthropist and major political donor Miriam Adelson for her pivotal role in shaping American policy toward Israel. Trump recounted the extraordinary influence exerted by Adelson and her late husband, casino magnate Sheldon Adelson, highlighting their consistent engagement with the White House during his administration.
“She loves Israel,” Trump told the Knesset on Monday, emphasizing the Adelsons’ impact on landmark decisions including the 2017 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, the 2018 relocation of the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem, and his 2019 endorsement of Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights. Trump gestured to Miriam Adelson, an Israeli-born physician and staunch supporter of Jewish causes, calling on her to stand. “Stand up, Miriam,” he said, as he recounted the couple’s frequent visits and phone calls to the Oval Office.
In his characteristic style, Trump injected humor while recalling Sheldon Adelson’s persistence, joking that the late casino tycoon would sometimes “come in through the window” to ensure his messages were heard. He also highlighted Miriam Adelson’s wealth, quipping, “She’s got $60 billion in the bank… I think she is saying, ‘No, more,’” drawing laughter from the assembly. Trump praised her unwavering devotion, noting her refusal to declare whether she loved Israel or the United States more a testament to her dual dedication.
Beyond political influence, Trump highlighted Miriam Adelson’s philanthropic contributions, particularly in medical research and addiction treatment. In 2018, she received the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her efforts in founding medical centers and launching the Adelson Medical Research Foundation alongside her late husband. A senior U.S. official also revealed that Miriam played a behind-the-scenes role in urging Trump to push for the safe return of hostages abducted by Hamas in 2023, with the last of the captives returning on Monday.
Trump’s remarks underscored the unique intersection of wealth, philanthropy, and political influence that the Adelsons wielded, portraying Miriam Adelson not just as a donor but as a deeply engaged advocate for U.S.-Israel relations. The address further illustrated the outsized role of private individuals in shaping foreign policy decisions at the highest levels of government.
This public acknowledgment at the Knesset serves as a vivid reminder of the personal and political networks that influence diplomacy, and of the continuing impact of the Adelson legacy on U.S.-Israel ties.