Former Shiloh, Israel Mayor talks about Trump, Iran, and the Shiloh Israel Children’s Fund
In a powerful and insightful interview on the National News Desk with host Jan Jeffcoat, David Rubin, the former mayor of Shiloh, Israel, shared his perspective on a range of critical issues, from the October 7th attacks on Israel to the geopolitical landscape under a potential second Trump administration. Rubin, a passionate advocate for his country, is also the founder of the Shiloh Israel Children’s Fund, an organization he established to support children in Israel’s biblical heartland, particularly those affected by terrorism. His thoughtful commentary provided a deep dive into the current challenges Israel faces and the broader implications for global security.
The interview began with Jeffcoat asking Rubin about his motivation behind starting the Shiloh Israel Children’s Fund. Rubin shared that his decision to establish the organization stemmed from the traumatic experiences he and his family endured during terrorist attacks in the region. Rubin explained that after surviving multiple attacks, he realized that there was a significant need for support for children living in areas frequently targeted by terrorist groups. He founded the Shiloh Israel Children’s Fund with the mission of helping children cope with the psychological and emotional toll of living in conflict zones. The organization provides a range of services, including trauma therapy and educational programs, helping young Israelis rebuild their lives after experiencing the horrors of terrorism.
Rubin then shifted to discussing the horrific events of October 7th, when Israel was subjected to a massive wave of attacks by Hamas. The October 7th attacks, Rubin explained, were not just random acts of violence but part of a larger, sustained effort by Hamas to undermine Israel’s security and existence. He described how the terrorists targeted innocent civilians, including women and children, in a coordinated attempt to destabilize the region. Rubin stressed the profound impact of these attacks on Israeli society, particularly on children who had to live with the fear of constant violence. He emphasized that such attacks were not isolated incidents but part of a broader pattern of hostility towards Israel that had been escalating over the years.
Jeffcoat then asked Rubin about the upcoming Trump administration and how he believed a second term for Donald Trump could impact Israel’s security and its geopolitical position. Rubin expressed optimism about the prospects of a second Trump presidency. He argued that Trump’s policies, especially his strong stance on Iran and his support for Israel, had been instrumental in strengthening the U.S.-Israel relationship. Rubin pointed out that under Trump, the U.S. recognized Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, moved the U.S. embassy there, and withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal—decisions that sent a clear message to both allies and adversaries about America’s unwavering support for Israel. Rubin emphasized that Trump’s commitment to defeating terrorism and confronting Iran’s nuclear ambitions would be crucial for ensuring Israel’s safety in the coming years.
The conversation then turned to the issue of Iran, a major geopolitical challenge for both Israel and the broader Middle East. Rubin spoke candidly about the threat posed by Iran, not only through its nuclear program but also through its support for terrorist groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. He stated that Iran’s influence in the region was growing, and its ambitions to dominate the Middle East were a direct threat to Israel’s survival. Rubin argued that the key to defeating Iran was a combination of diplomatic pressure, military preparedness, and strong alliances, particularly with the United States. He suggested that a robust, multi-pronged strategy, including sanctions, intelligence operations, and military readiness, was necessary to curb Iran’s ambitions and prevent it from becoming a nuclear power.
Jeffcoat followed up by asking Rubin about the broader geopolitical challenges facing Israel and the Middle East, especially with the rise of extremist groups and shifting alliances in the region. Rubin acknowledged that the geopolitical situation in the Middle East was complex and volatile. He noted that while Israel had made peace agreements with several Arab nations through the Abraham Accords, the situation with Iran and its proxy groups remained a significant challenge. Rubin stressed that the key to long-term peace and stability in the region lay in confronting the ideologies of extremism and terrorism head-on. He called for continued pressure on Iran and other state sponsors of terrorism and highlighted the importance of Israel maintaining its military superiority to deter potential threats.
Rubin’s insights into the situation in the Middle East were both sobering and realistic. He stressed the importance of resilience, not just in Israel but for the entire world, in the face of threats from radical groups and rogue nations. He also underscored the critical role of international partnerships, particularly with the U.S., in securing Israel’s future.
In conclusion, the interview with David Rubin provided a compelling look into the current and future challenges facing Israel. His perspective on the October 7th attacks, the threat posed by Iran, and the geopolitical dynamics of the region painted a picture of a complex, volatile environment. Rubin’s work with the Shiloh Israel Children’s Fund offers hope and support to those directly affected by these challenges, particularly Israel’s youngest citizens. As Rubin looks ahead to the possibility of a second Trump administration, he remains focused on the need for strong leadership, continued support for Israel, and a commitment to confronting the threats that jeopardize peace and security in the Middle East.
