One of the great things about life is that its darkest moments bring out the best in some people. Although it has been a terrible week I thank goodness for all who have reacted by shining brightly and striving to get the truth out there. I’d like to focus on two examples.
I’ve written several times before of my admiration for Jonathan Hoffman. Knowing him as I do I suspect the praise embarrasses him a bit. But I make no apology for repeating it because this week he has worked tirelessly and effectively on Israel’s behalf. I’m absolutely flabbergasted by Jonathan’s brilliance and I’m proud to call him a friend.
I can say the same about the Zionist Federation’s recently-appointed Director of Public Affairs Jonathan Sacerdoti. In the 18 months I’ve known him he has worked energetically on behalf of Israel in many ways. This week he has been especially courageous and articulate for Israel speaking brilliantly on television, arranging initiatives and so much more. Like the other Jonathan, he is a self-effacing man who doesn’t do it for thanks or recognition. But I still feel they should both know how admiring and grateful we all are.
On a lighter note, I am delighted that my Italian/Israeli reader ‘evaM’ visited White House Express while in London last week. She ate there purely on the strength of my recommendation and had exactly the same order that myself – and Mr Sacerdoti – always have. Shawarma fans can see what she made of the food in the comments here.
Tomorrow I am posting a World Cup related piece, but with an important twist. See you soon.
well, what can I say but thank you.
Of course, you also are a hero Chas! The blog is great, and you are greater. Thanks for all you do, too.
I only discovered Jonathan Hoffman recently, when I dared to click onto Press TV after He Who Must Be Obeyed had left the room, and saw Jonathan on a panel that was convened ostensibly to discuss the topic of whether Israel causes antisemitism. I only saw the last 10 minutes of the programme, and was amazed at his courage – a latter day Daniel in the lion’s den – and disgusted by the baying mob he faced, including not a few of our very good friends the “as-a-Jews”.
Anyway, I’m proud to call him my Friend on Facebook – and when my son saw that he was very impressed. “Mum, he’s famous!” he said.
As for the other Jonathan, I greatly admired his video of John Sullivan, that biased old gent on his way to the anti-Israel carol service.
Liraz I was at the filming of that Press TV show. It was a truly hateful atmosphere, many times worse than it comes across on-screen.
Oh – I think I better chuck the name Liraz and revert to my – ahem – real one of Yvetta Bagel, or Jonathan will really wonder who all these strange women are!
Both Jonathans have many female fans! ;p
Gee thanks Chas and everyone. What a week. I’ve worn out five keyboards since 5.30am Monday …
Well done the two Jonathans; and Chas, of course.
Chas, I could not agree more with your comments about both the Jonathans.
Jonathan Hoffman puts Anglo Jewry to shame, with his constant support of Israel. I don’t know how he finds the time to be in so many places at once and often on his own against a very hostile opposition. His courage and tenacity are truly heroic.
Jonathan Sacerdoti is a calm, urbane and immaculately turned out representative of Am Yisroel who also puts himself at risk while defending all of us, and can be relied upon to put the case for Israel, clearly and intelligently.
Time after time, Jon Hoffman goes to meetings and demos on his own. A small group of us try to be there but he really needs more regular support.
If you feel strongly about this issue, please try to put aside one day or evening a month to support him – one man alone should not be the only person to fight back against the lunacy of support for the Islamist, anti-Israel cause.
Its trite I know, but for evil to succeed all it takes is that good people do nothing.
Very well said cityca. The photographs of Jonathan Hoffman at the recent demo, surrounded by allies were so heartwarming. He has demonstrated alone or more or less on his own many times.
Oh, I’m so happy, Chas – Chas Moore has come good in the Torygraph!
Why has Israel disarmed itself in the battle for world opinion?
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/comment/columnists/charlesmoore/7803919/Why-has-Israel-disarmed-itself-in-the-battle-for-world-opinion.html
Many thanks to both the tireless Jonathans; especially at times like this it is very comforting to know that Israel does not stand alone, although I know full well that neither of them ever stop working for Israel even on calmer days.
Congratulations to the ZF on such a brilliant new appointment. I can’t think of a better person for such an important post.
Jonathan Hoffman truly is a hero. Thank you!
…as is Jonathan Sacerdoti! The Zionist Federation leads the way.
I agree :voices of courage and sanity in a mad,mad world.