In the face of tragedy true friends reveal themselves. This was an undeniable truth, when in a powerful display of support, former presidential candidate and former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, Nikki Haley, responded to my invitation and embarked on a solidarity visit to Israel in the aftermath of the Oct. 7 massacre. This gesture not only deeply resonated with me personally, it profoundly touched the hearts and the lives of our people. It also sent a powerful message of her unwavering support of Israel at this critical time in the just war that we are fighting.
From the outset, Haley plunged headlong into the harsh realities faced by Israel in the aftermath of the tragic events of Oct. 7.
During our visit to Israel's southern communities that bore the brunt of the atrocities on that day, Haley met with survivors and bereaved families, spoke with officials and residents who have endured unimaginable grief, pain, and loss. In kibbutz Nir Oz and at the Nova festival site in Re'im, she walked the ground where innocent lives were brutally taken and paid tribute to the victims of the senseless and sadistic slaughter.
Yet, amid the depths of despair and suffering, she also bore witness to the remarkable spirit and strength evident in every individual she encountered. Their unwavering determination and refusal to surrender served as a powerful testament to our nation's resilience in the face of adversity.
Ambassador Haley's response to the October 7th atrocities was unflinchingly candid. She did not mince her words when she spoke about the suffering she had witnessed, the harrowing sights she had seen and the stark brutality of the stories she had heard: "What happened on Oct. 7 was pure evil."
In her view, this isn't a conflict to be resolved through half-measures or appeasement. It's a battle between good and evil, where neutrality is not an option. "Pick a side," she declared. "My side is the one where we speak for those who can no longer speak and fight for those who can no longer fight."
Her words echoed the sentiments of countless Americans who stand shoulder to shoulder with Israel. Her resolute stance against terrorism and unwavering support for Israel's right to defend itself serve as a testament to the enduring bond between the people of Israel and the people of America.
In every interaction, Haley's presence served as a beacon of hope and solidarity amid Israel's ongoing quest for peace and security. From high-level discussions with politicians and security officials to heartfelt moments shared with Israel's citizens, she lent unwavering support and empathy to all she encountered.
Throughout her engagements, Haley didn't just gather facts and insights into the complex challenges facing Israel; she took the time to connect with each individual on a personal level. Whether it was hearing their stories or understanding the sacrifices they've made due to the ongoing conflict, she sought to grasp the realities faced by the people of Israel. Her meetings with hostage families and returned hostages were particularly meaningful. In these encounters, she offered words of comfort and solidarity, reaffirming her commitment to do all in her power to secure the safe return of all those held captive by the Hamas terror organization.
In these dark times, when Israel's very existence is under threat, Haley's support is significant, on both a moral and a spiritual level. She doesn't just stand with Israel; she stands for the universal values of justice, freedom, and human dignity that Israel represents.
To Ambassador Nikki Haley, I say "Thank You." In an age where many leaders are non-committal, you speak with confidence and with clarity. Where some distance themselves from the truth, you draw closer. And when the world's attention wavers, you ensure that the voices of the victims are not forgotten.
Thank you for being a true friend to Israel—not just in words, but in presence, in action, and in spirit. Your solidarity strengthens Israel's resolve and reminds us all that in the face of pure evil we will not bend and we will not break. In this battle against darkness, victory isn't just an aspiration, it is our duty and our destiny. We will rise, we will fight, and we will triumph.
MK Ambassador Danny Danon is a senior member of Israel's ruling Likud party in Israel's Knesset. He served as Israel's 17th Permanent Representative to the United Nations.
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