Elise Stefanik.Photo: tochka.net.
Donald Trump has made his first major appointment since returning to the political arena: Elise Stefanik, a New York Republican and member of the House of Representatives and chair of the House Republican Conference, will become the new US Ambassador to the United Nations. The move underscores the strengthening of US support for Israel and the high level of national security that Trump plans to pursue in international relations. Earlier it was reported that another candidate for this position was considered – David Friedman, former US ambassador to Israel, who is also a close ally of Trump. However, the choice in favour of Stefanik is due to her impeccable reputation as a leader who actively advocates for the support of Israel, TimeUkraineIsrael reports citing Israelinfo.
Active fight against anti-Semitism and support for Israel
Elise Stefanik gained notoriety for her strong stance during congressional hearings on anti-Semitic statements at universities. Her statements that calls for an intifada in student campaigns are de facto calls for the genocide of the Jews caused a significant stir. In particular, after she directly questioned the rector of the University of Pennsylvania, Liz Magill, about the anti-Semitic statements and the rector refused to condemn them, Stefanik publicly tweeted: “One down, two to go.”
Supporting Israel and criticising the Biden administration
An equally important moment was her visit to Israel in May this year, when Stefanik visited Hamas-affected kibbutzim in the western Negev. Expressing her support for Israel, she said that the United States should provide the state with all the necessary resources to destroy the Hamas terrorist organisation. She also criticised the Biden administration’s hesitation in providing assistance.
The Defender of Israel Award and its role in US policy
In March 2024, she was awarded the Defender of Israel Award, established by the Adelsons, which recognises her active work in support of the Jewish state and the fight against anti-Semitism.
An appointment that strengthens the US international position
Thus, the appointment of Elise Stefanik as US Ambassador to the UN is a logical step in Trump’s strategic policy of supporting Israel and strengthening international security. Stefanik has already proven herself as a politician ready to defend America’s interests on the global stage, and her determination in international issues will be an important factor in future diplomatic challenges.
