New York City Councilman James F. Gennar delivered a forceful defense of Israel during the Arutz Sheva and Chazaq Summit in Queens, warning that rising anti-Israel sentiment in the United States poses a growing challenge for supporters of the Jewish state. Speaking before a packed audience, Gennaro argued that some of the strongest attacks against Israel are amplified when they come from Jewish critics themselves, comparing the situation to members of the same team working against one another and providing political cover for Israel's opponents. Throughout his remarks, Gennaro criticized what he described as the increasing acceptance of anti-Israel narratives in political, religious, and cultural institutions. Gennaro argued that supporters of Israel must be more willing to confront rhetoric they believe undermines the country's legitimacy and security. Gennaro contended that Jewish New Yorkers deserve leaders who stand firmly against anti-Jewish hatred and reject efforts to normalize hostility toward Israel, concluding his speech by highlighting his family's personal ties to the country and ending with a declaration of support for the Jewish people that drew enthusiastic applause from attendees.