Steve Witkoff, the Special Envoy of the President of the United States to the Middle East, attended the annual gala of United Hatzalah. The event took place last night (Wednesday) in New York and raised over $18 million in a single evening.
“I’m confident you will fight for every hostage”
Former hostage Noa Argamani also took part in the event. In her speech on stage, she addressed Witkoff, saying:
“As you know, my partner Avinatan is still being held hostage, and we are fighting to bring all of the hostages home—so that we can feel whole again and continue with our lives. I am confident that you will fight for every hostage until the very last one is freed.”
Former hostage Eli Sharabi, who recently published his memoir, continued in a personal tone:
“Thank you, Steve, from the bottom of my heart—for your unwavering commitment to my release, and for standing courageously and taking action to free my brothers and sisters from Gaza. Your strength, passion, and sacrifice mean more than words can express.”
“Every hostage must have the chance to hug their parents”
During the event, Witkoff was presented with the “Medal of Life” award.
“We will never allow Iran to enrich uranium or develop nuclear weapons,” said Witkoff. “A nuclear Iran poses an existential threat to Israel—and it is an existential threat to the United States as well. We must stand together, determined to prevent it, no matter the cost.”
In his speech, Witkoff also praised President Trump, saying his leadership safeguarded Israel’s right to exist:
“The embassy move to Jerusalem, recognition of Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, executive orders protecting Jewish students on campuses—he has been the strongest president Israel has ever had.”
Regarding efforts to return the hostages, Witkoff recounted his presence at the release of Edan Alexander after 584 days in captivity:
“I will never forget the moment he embraced his parents after the hell he endured in Gaza. Every living hostage must have that same opportunity—to hug their parents.” He added that they are committed to bringing back all fallen soldiers for burial in Israel:
“So that parents can visit their loved ones—just as I visit my own son’s grave.”
