Full Breakdown
Miriam Adelson: A Key Player in U.S.-Israel Relations
10/14/2025, 12:54:47 AM
Trump’s Acknowledgment at the Knesset
During a recent address to the Knesset, Israel's parliament, President Donald Trump highlighted the significant influence of Miriam Adelson, a prominent pro-Israel donor and owner of the Dallas Mavericks. Trump praised Adelson for her unwavering support for Israel, noting her substantial financial contributions, including over $106 million to his 2024 presidential campaign. He remarked, “Look at her sitting there so innocently,” and humorously suggested that she might love Israel more than the United States, referencing a past conversation where she declined to choose between the two nations.
Background on Miriam Adelson
Miriam Adelson, born in Tel Aviv in 1945, is a physician and philanthropist who gained prominence through her marriage to Sheldon Adelson, the late CEO of Las Vegas Sands Corporation. Following his death in 2021, she took majority control of the company and has since expanded her influence in both business and politics. The Adelsons have been major donors to Republican causes, contributing over $600 million to support Trump and other candidates since 2015.
Influence on U.S. Policy Toward Israel
Adelson's impact on U.S.-Israel relations is profound. Trump credited her and her late husband with shaping key policy decisions during his presidency, including the recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital and the relocation of the U.S. embassy there. Their frequent visits to the White House underscored their close relationship with Trump, who noted, “I think they had more trips to the White House than anybody else.” A senior U.S. official indicated that she played a crucial role in advocating for the return of hostages taken by Hamas in 2023.
Criticism and Opposition
Adelson's outspoken support for Israel has drawn criticism, particularly following the October 7 attacks. In a column for Israel Hayom, a publication she owns, she called for dismissing Israel's critics, labeling them as enemies. Her comments regarding pro-Palestinian protests have also sparked controversy, as she characterized them as gatherings of radical activists. Critics argue that her views contribute to a polarized discourse surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Official Statements & Responses
Trump's remarks at the Knesset reflect his administration's alignment with Adelson's pro-Israel stance. He emphasized her contributions to U.S.-Israel relations and her philanthropic efforts, including her work in addiction research through the Adelson Medical Research Foundation. In 2018, Trump awarded her the Presidential Medal of Freedom, recognizing her influence and commitment to both countries.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’m gonna get her in trouble with this one, but I actually asked her once, ‘So, Miriam, I know you love Israel. What do you love more? Israel. The United States or Israel?’ She refused to answer. That might mean Israel,” — President Donald Trump
- “Foreign fans of Hamas are our enemies, the ideological enablers in the West of those who would go to any length to eradicate us from the Middle East.” — Miriam Adelson
- “If you condemn Hamas and then add a “but” followed by condemnation of Israel, you’re dead to us,” she wrote.” — Miriam Adelson
- “Stand up, you know, stand up. Miriam and Sheldon would come into the office … I think they’d have more trips to the White House than anybody else.” — President Donald Trump
Conclusion
Miriam Adelson's role as a major donor and advocate for pro-Israel policies has positioned her as a significant figure in American politics. Her financial contributions and close relationship with Trump have shaped U.S. policy toward Israel, while her vocal support for the nation continues to influence public discourse. As the landscape of U.S.-Israel relations evolves, Adelson remains a pivotal player in this ongoing narrative.
