At the Jerusalem Post Miami Conference, Haim Bibas, chairman of the Federation of Local Authorities in Israel, emphasized that Israel’s recovery hinges on strengthening partnerships with Jewish communities abroad and empowering local leadership domestically. "After all we have experienced these past two years, as an Israeli, I can say it loudly and clearly, we see you as partners. Full partners,” Bibas stated.
He expressed gratitude to North American Jewish communities, saying, “Thank you for your help. Thank you for your commitment. Thank you for having our backs when we needed it most.” Describing the last two years as "the most difficult in Israel’s history,” Bibas highlighted that October 7’s aftermath left the country in urgent need of moral and financial support. “After October 7th, we needed help. The Jewish communities in North America were there for us,” he noted, adding that such support was "crucial to our revival and essential for our future as we rebuild the State of Israel.”
Bibas also warned that diaspora communities faced their own battles. “You have a war of your own – right here,” he said. “Antisemitism has worsened, and fake news and social media heighten its danger. You are on the front lines fighting antisemitism, and we stand with you in this fight," he concluded.
Bibas noted that since October 7, the Federation and Israel’s 259 municipalities have taken on a leading role, citing their responsibility to communities. During the Iron Swords war and a recent 12-day conflict with Iran, mayors have been the first responders, arriving alongside emergency and rescue teams to handle challenging, complex situations until all residents were cared for. He described expanded emergency teams, upgraded security systems, and the formation of armed civilian units in each city. “Preparedness saves lives,” Bibas emphasized. “We operate around the clock to serve all Israelis.” Looking forward, he saw a major opportunity for Israel to turn municipal efficiency into broader governance, especially in smart cities and AI-driven services. Bibas called for unity and trust, asserting local leaders can restore public confidence and meet their duty to future generations.
Written in collaboration with Federation of Local Authorities