US envoy Steve Witkoff: ‘We will never allow a nuclear Iran, no matter the cost’
“A nuclear Iran is an existential threat to Israel, and it is an existential threat to the United States,” Witkoff said.
US special envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff pledged unwavering American support for Israel’s security Wednesday night.
The US would never allow Iran to obtain nuclear weapons, “no matter the cost,” he said in a speech at United Hatzalah’s annual gala in New York.
“A nuclear Iran is an existential threat to Israel, and it is an existential threat to the United States,” Witkoff said. “We must stand together with resolve to stop it. Whatever it takes.”
United Hatzalah honored Witkoff with its prestigious “Lifesaving Award.”
The event raised more than $18 million to support emergency medical services in Israel. It was attended by former Mossad director Yossi Cohen, philanthropist Dr. Miriam Adelson, and two high-profile hostages who were released from Gaza, Noa Argamani and Eli Sharabi.
“President Trump was the strongest president Israel has ever had – moving the embassy to Jerusalem, recognizing the Golan Heights, and signing executive orders protecting Jewish students on campus,” he said.
Witkoff discusses ongoing hostage crisis
Regarding the ongoing hostage crisis, Witkoff spoke emotionally about his personal loss – his son Andrew died several years ago – and linked it to the pain of Israeli families.“No parent should ever have to bury their child,” he said. “Every hostage must be given the chance to embrace their family again. I was there when Edan Alexander was released after 584 days in Hamas captivity. I’ll never forget the moment he hugged his parents. That moment must be guaranteed for every hostage.”
Witkoff also reiterated the US commitment to recovering the bodies of fallen Israeli soldiers so that their families can bury them with dignity.
“Every parent deserves to say goodbye properly,” he said. “We are determined to ensure that.”
Argamani addressed the attendees and said to Witkoff, “As you know, my partner, Avinatan, is still in captivity. We are fighting to bring all the hostages home so we can feel whole again. I am confident you will fight for every hostage until the last one is free.”
Sharabi said: “Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your unwavering commitment to my release and for standing strong for my brothers and sisters still in Gaza. Your strength, passion, and sacrifice mean more than words can express.”
United Hatzalah founder and president Eli Beer said: “When you save a life, you are saving an entire world – a family, future generations, hope, and light.”
Every second, every action of our 8,000 volunteers is a victory of life over death,” he said. “I thank all those who made this event possible and support our sacred mission.”
