Overview
- During his Knesset address, the president singled out Adelson by name, praised her efforts and even remarked on her vast fortune as the chamber applauded.
- Families of Israeli hostages say Adelson was in frequent contact, at times speaking with them almost daily, while conveying their appeals to U.S. decision-makers.
- Reporting credits her behind-the-scenes advocacy with helping convince the president to make securing releases a central priority.
- Adelson’s leverage stems from years as a top Republican megadonor, ownership of the widely read Israel Hayom, and leadership of the Las Vegas Sands with a majority stake in the Dallas Mavericks.
- Her influence on prior U.S. policy is well documented, including pushing moves such as the embassy relocation to Jerusalem and recognition of Israeli control of the Golan Heights.