Tzipi Hotovely: Israel Is Fighting for the Western World

National Public Diplomacy Chief Tzipi Hotovely spoke Monday at the JNS international policy conference, where she addressed Israel’s security and strategic challenges. She said the current war has global implications far beyond Israel, arguing that Israel’s fight against Hezbollah and Iran also serves Western interests.

"Israel's war against Hezbollah is not only for the citizens of Israel, but for the whole world," Hotovely said. She added, "When Israel fights the terrorist organization Hezbollah, it is fighting the enemies of the United States. When Israel fights Iran, it is fighting for the entire Western world."

Hotovely also said Israel must maintain a military presence beyond the border in Lebanon. "Israel will remain in the security zone in Lebanon, because this is the only way to ensure the safety of the residents of the north and prevent a scenario of October 7 on the northern border," she said.

Turning to Israel’s international messaging, Hotovely called for a new approach to hasbara. "We need to replace the victim consciousness and bring to the forefront the arguments of morality and justice in the war against global evil," she said. She concluded that the story of the Jewish people is extraordinary and that Israel must speak about its historical justice and its thousands-year connection to the land.