JTA: The Global News Service of the Jewish People

Celebrating 60 years of American-Israeli friendship

By Daniel Sieradski · May 15, 2008

Last night, the President's Conference reached its climax with an event celebrating the historic relationship between Israel and the United States. In their successive addresses, which were interspersed with musical and (more questionable) dance performances, President Shimon Peres, Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, and the event's chair, American casino magnate Sheldon Adelson, celebrated the uniqueness of the U.S.-Israel relationship, expressed gratitude for America's commitment to Israeli security, and lavished praise upon U.S. President George W. Bush, the evening's guest of honor, whom they characterized as the most supportive U.S. President Israel has ever known. Their remarks, which were met with thunderous applause, preceded a brief address by President Bush, who linked the destinies of the U.S. and Israel through their shared commitment to bringing peace to the Middle East. The full audio of each speech follows.

President Shimon Peres

[audio:/images/archive/051408_tomorrow_peres.mp3]

Prime Minister Ehud Olmert

[audio:/images/archive/051408_tomorrow_olmert.mp3]

Mr. & Mrs. Sheldon Adelson

[audio:/images/archive/051408_tomorrow_adelson.mp3]

U.S. President George W. Bush

[audio:/images/archive/051408_tomorrow_bush.mp3]

President Bush receives one of several standing ovations

Audio sound funny? Upgrade your Flash player.

To subscribe to JTA's Behind the News podcast, click here.