Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) praised the Zionist Organization of America for what he described as its unwavering advocacy on behalf of Israel and the Jewish people.

By TheJ.Ca Staff

(June 10, 2026 / The J.Ca) Nearly 200 Jewish leaders from across the United States gathered in the nation’s capital this week for the Zionist Organization of America’s annual Washington Mission, where almost two dozen members of Congress from both political parties called for stronger action to combat antisemitism and urged continued efforts by the Trump administration to counter the threat posed by the Islamic Republic of Iran.

The advocacy mission brought together Jewish community leaders for meetings with lawmakers on Capitol Hill, discussions with senior government officials, and briefings on issues affecting Israel, American national security, and rising antisemitism.

Throughout the two-day event, speakers emphasized that growing antisemitism in the United States and abroad, along with Iran’s regional ambitions and support for terrorist organizations, remain among the most pressing challenges confronting both Israel and the Jewish people.

Cruz Calls Antisemitism a Threat to Democracy

One of the keynote addresses came from Senator Ted Cruz, Republican of Texas, who warned delegates that antisemitism threatens not only Jewish communities but also democratic institutions.

“Antisemitism is a gateway drug that, unless eradicated, will ultimately lead to the diminution of the democratic values we cherish,” Cruz told delegates, receiving a standing ovation.

“We need to stand and fight because what has happened is staggering and dangerous.”

Cruz also urged leaders in both political parties to confront antisemitic voices within their own ranks.

“The Democratic Party thought it would just go away. But today there is a real contingent of antisemitic sentiment,” Cruz said.

“But it also pains me that we see antisemitism growing on the right. I couldn’t imagine that would be the case two years ago, but it is, and it must be stopped.”

Cruz praised the Zionist Organization of America for what he described as its unwavering advocacy on behalf of Israel and the Jewish people.

He thanked the organization for its “inimitable, fearless and inspiring commitment to speak and advocate for the truth and the clarity of its message.”

Lawmakers Stress Bipartisan Support

Representative Mike Lawler, Republican of New York, also addressed delegates, emphasizing the need for stronger measures to confront rising Jew hatred.

“Let me be clear. Antizionism is antisemitism. It is rooted in Jew hatred,” Lawler said.

“We are living in a moment that at times feels like 1930s Germany, where the dehumanization of Jews is leading to physical attacks. But not on my watch. All of us as Americans should be appalled by this and take action to stop it.”

Other members of Congress participating in the Washington Mission included Senator John Hoeven of North Dakota, Representatives Andy Biggs of Arizona, Randy Fine of Florida, Laura Gillen of New York, Josh Gottheimer of New Jersey, Kevin Kiley of California, George Latimer of New York, Claudia Tenney of New York, Shri Thanedar of Michigan, and additional members from both parties.

ZOA Highlights Three Legislative Priorities

Following the luncheon program, ZOA delegations met with dozens of senators, representatives and congressional staff to discuss three principal policy priorities.

The first focused on the threat posed by the Islamic Republic of Iran.

ZOA representatives argued that Iran remains an existential threat to Israel and a significant security threat to the United States and its allies.

Delegates expressed support for continued efforts to prevent Iran from acquiring a military nuclear capability and voiced support for American military and economic measures intended to weaken the regime’s ability to finance and arm terrorist organizations.

A second priority centered on combating antisemitism.

Delegates described growing levels of antisemitism on university campuses, in public schools, online, and in major cities since the Hamas terrorist attacks against Israel on October 7, 2023.

ZOA urged lawmakers to strengthen enforcement of existing laws protecting Jewish Americans while considering additional legislation to address antisemitic violence, intimidation, and discrimination.

The organization’s third priority focused on reaffirming Jewish historical, legal, and religious connections to Judea and Samaria.

ZOA representatives encouraged lawmakers to support legislation adopting the historically accurate terminology of Judea and Samaria rather than the term West Bank, while emphasizing what they described as Israel’s legal and historical rights in the territory.

Justice Department Announces National Initiative

The Washington Mission officially began the previous evening with a reception featuring Leo Terrell, Chair of the U.S. Department of Justice Task Force on Antisemitism.

During his remarks, Terrell announced a nationwide initiative, a 15-city tour aimed at strengthening federal efforts to combat antisemitism.

“Antisemitism is local,” Terrell said.

“It’s a failure of prosecutors to prosecute. It’s a failure of teachers when they teach antisemitism in schools.”

“We are bringing the message that either they prosecute or we will file a lawsuit against them.”

Terrell assured attendees that combating antisemitism remains a priority for the Justice Department.

“Fighting antisemitism is a 24/7 commitment,” he said.

“I am there for you, the Justice Department is there for you, and President Trump is there for you.”

Klein Praises Advocacy Efforts

ZOA National President Morton A. Klein told delegates that confronting Iran and combating antisemitism remain the organization’s highest priorities.

“Coming to Washington as proud Jews and Zionists sends a powerful message to Congress,” Klein said.

“We are right, the antisemites are wrong. We are truthful and just. Our enemies are full of lies.”

Klein argued that preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons and continuing efforts to counter Iranian-backed terrorist organizations remain essential to both Israeli and American security.

He also praised Terrell’s commitment to protecting Jewish communities.

“Leo Terrell will go down in history as one of the best friends the Jewish people ever had,” Klein said.

Continuing Advocacy

Founded in 1897, the Zionist Organization of America is the oldest pro-Israel organization in the United States.

The organization advocates for stronger United States-Israel relations through public policy initiatives, educational programming, media engagement, and congressional advocacy.

As delegates concluded their meetings across Capitol Hill, organizers said the Washington Mission demonstrated continued bipartisan support for Israel while reinforcing the importance of confronting antisemitism, strengthening United States-Israel relations, and addressing security threats posed by Iran.

For participants, the mission represented an opportunity not only to meet directly with elected officials but also to reaffirm the enduring partnership between the United States and Israel during a period of heightened regional instability and growing concern over antisemitism worldwide.

This article was originally published in TheJ.Ca and can be viewed here.