JTA reports that Trump takes advice on Israel from Sheldon Adelson, the casino magnate; and Ronald Lauder, the cosmetics heir and president of the World Jewish Congress. Both are major supporters of Israel, with differing views. Lauder wants Trump to court Mahmoud Abbas. Adelson wants him to move the US Embassy to Jerusalem…
The Senate Foreign Relations Committee will begin confirmation hearings on Thursday for Trump’s nominee for ambassador to Israel. (Rand Paul could be the swing vote). Friedman, who helps finance Israeli settlements, is opposed by a diverse array of groups; some pro-Israel groups say he would be bad for Israel. Some of his Senate supporters received donations from Sheldon Adelson…
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott called in his budget for passing laws cutting off businesses from Texas pension plans that adhere to Israel boycotts and broadening laws banning state investments in Iran. He traveled to Israel on a jet supplied by pro-Israel megadonor Sheldon Adelson. Adelson has said he regretted serving in US Army, would have preferred being in Israeli army…