For the first time in the United States, a golf event aimed at strengthening support for Judea and Samaria and Jewish settlement in Israel is set to be held this May at a prestigious golf club on Long Island.
The event is being organized by AFJS, or American Friends of Judea and Samaria, which says it is designed to connect senior figures in the American business world with Israel’s settlement enterprise through what it describes as a high-profile day combining sport and Zionism.
Organizers say the event is expected to draw more than 100 participants, including business leaders, influencers and public figures. Among those expected to attend are Arkansas state Sen. Jim Dotson and state Rep. Mindy McAlindon, who the group says are among the first U.S. lawmakers to advance legislation in support of Judea and Samaria.
Other senators said to be in advanced stages of promoting similar legislation are also expected, along with senior figures from the U.S. administration, according to the organizers.
Israeli participants are also expected to attend, including Simcha Rothman, chairman of the Knesset Constitution, Law and Justice Committee.
AFJS board member Marcus Mizrahi and supporter Michael Albala, who have organized and led golf tournaments across the United States, are helping lead the effort. Organizers said they hope to establish the AFJS Golf Tournament as the group’s flagship event in 2026.
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AFJS CEO Yigal Dilmoni, Arkansas state Rep. Mindy McAlindon and Shomron Regional Council head Yossi Dagan
(Photo: AFJS)
For Mizrahi and Albala, support for Jewish communities in Judea and Samaria is a cause close to their hearts, the organization said.
“We are breaking new ground by bringing the story of Judea and Samaria to some of the most influential arenas,” Yigal Dilmoni, CEO of AFJS, said in a statement.
“Our goal is to create a meaningful connection, through a unique and prestigious experience, between key American decision-makers and the heartland of the Bible,” he said. “On this day, they will be exposed to the historical significance of the region, the tremendous work being done, and the growth taking place in Judea and Samaria. This event presents a real opportunity to strengthen support for Israel.”