During the Jerusalem Post Miami Conference, Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion stated that after seven years in office, “Jerusalem is a different city" and called it “the ‘Next Big Thing' in Israel.” Lion highlighted rapid development in the city, mentioning that Jerusalem is now actively shaping its future, not just planning for it. “We are not just talking about the future; we are building it,” he affirmed. The mayor noted over 20,000 new housing units are under construction, along with more than two million square meters of commercial and employment space. “These homes are for everyone,” he emphasized, including "you, our brothers and sisters." “Jerusalem is strong,” he declared. "It is the engine of Israel’s future.”
The mayor also addressed the aftermath of October 7, recognizing that “Israel has paid a heavy price” and that “Jerusalem has paid a heavy price.” Nonetheless, he emphasized unity, stating, “We are healing the wounds, both physical and emotional. But we do this together.” Lion gave special praise to former U.S. president Donald Trump, calling him “a true friend of Israel,” “a hero of Israel,” and “a leader who stood with Jerusalem.” Turning to global issues, Lion warned of the “terrible rise in antisemitism,” delivering a firm message to world leaders. “If you remain silent on antisemitism, it never stops with the Jews; it only begins with us,” he said, criticizing civic leaders who “actively encourage hatred of Jews.” He depicted Jerusalem as a symbol of coexistence, saying, “The role of a mayor is to unify, not divide. If we can do it in Jerusalem, the most complex city in the world, we can do it everywhere.” Lion concluded by calling on Diaspora Jews, asserting, “Israel is your shield. Jerusalem is your anchor,” and promising, “You will always have a home in Jerusalem.”
This article was written in cooperation with the Jerusalem Development Authority