From the Liveblog of
Friday, October 27, 2023
US Jewish Republicans gather amid Israel-Hamas war
Top US Republican Jewish leaders head to Las Vegas for a key annual convention, with Israel’s war against Hamas set to dominate the gathering.
The Republican Jewish Coalition (RJC) that traditionally welcomes White House hopefuls looking for donors is expected to be an opportunity for candidates to demonstrate their support of Israel.
“The world will be watching,” the RJC wrote on social media as it announced a countdown to the event.
The @RJC Annual Leadership Summit in Las Vegas kicks off this weekend!
The world will be watching.
Be sure to follow along for updates at: #RJCVegas. pic.twitter.com/6CzYJENldO
— RJC (@RJC) October 26, 2023
The eight main candidates for the Republican Party nomination are all expected to speak at the meeting, including frontrunner Donald Trump, and his nearest rival, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.
Trump sparked fury in recent weeks by describing Lebanon-based Hezbollah as “very smart” and criticizing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
