AFSI: A Pro-Israel Voice in America

Since 1970, Americans for a Safe Israel has brought together Jews and Christians in this country who care about Israel. AFSI’s main thrust is educating about the importance to Israel’s security of territories conquered in the 1967 war. AFSI’s argument is that these areas provide Israel with strategic depth and the high ground to defend itself from future Arab attack.

Although AFSI found itself politically isolated after the Oslo Accords, in which Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin’s government handed over parts of Judea and Samaria to Yasser Arafat, AFSI never deviated from its platform. It warned of the dangers of giving over territory to the “Father of Modern Terror.” Since that time, AFSI’s warnings have been proven correct time and again. Israel was engulfed in a terror war the likes of which it had never seen. Thousands died in bus bombings, stabbings and shootings.

AFSI has since regained its footing, appearing prescient in the face of these subsequent events. In Israel, the majority of the population recognizes that the country erred in assuming the character of terrorists could be reformed. Those who push Oslo-like solutions today have been shunted to the political  sidelines.

For 47 years  AFSI has produced Outpost, a monthly publication with a mixture of original essays and the best of what has been written elsewhere on the current situation in Israel and in Europe as it affects the Jewish people. It’s even read in the Knesset. You can view it online here.

Chizuk Mission

AFSI also sponsors a twice-yearly Chizuk Mission to Israel. It’s not a typical tourist trip. You’ll be invited into the homes of average Israelis and meet important political and community figures. Chizuk trips have been going on for years and the name opens doors in Israel. If the choice is between a regular tourist trip to Israel and a Chizuk mission, you want the Chizuk mission.

Herbert Zweibon

AFSI was led for decades by Herbert Zweibon. Herb was well-liked by all who knew him – self-effacing with a warm personality and great sense-of-humor. Emotions often run high in matters relating to Israeli politics. Sometimes things get personal. But Herb never got wound up, even when abuse was hurled his way. He just shrugged it off.

To find out more about AFSI you can contact the organization here.