Washington, Dec 17 (NationPress) US President Donald Trump leveraged a Hanukkah reception at the White House to make a campaign-style address that defended Israel, condemned antisemitism, and highlighted what he characterized as his administration's actions against Iran and Hamas. The audience responded with enthusiasm, cheering, chanting slogans, and applauding well-known political phrases.

In a filled East Room, Trump emphasized his unwavering support for Israel and Jewish Americans, intertwining policy assertions with political criticisms and personal comments.

Multiple times, attendees shouted, “Four more years” and “We love Trump,” eliciting smiles and pauses from the president.

Trump began by condemning an antisemitic mass shooting during a Hanukkah celebration in Sydney, Australia, which local authorities indicated was inspired by the Islamic State.

“I want to take a moment to send love and prayers to the entire nation, particularly to the people of Australia, and especially those affected by this horrific and antisemitic terrorist attack,” he stated.

Positioning his presidency as uniquely favorable to Jewish Americans, Trump asserted: “As President of the United States, I will always stand by Jewish Americans, and I will perpetually be a friend and advocate for the Jewish people.”

He cautioned that antisemitism was on the rise in the United States, especially in politics and on college campuses. “A decade ago, the strongest lobby in Washington was the Jewish lobby. That is no longer the case,” he remarked. “We have a Congress that is becoming increasingly antisemitic.”

Trump also touched on the Israel-Hamas conflict and regional security, stating, “We achieved peace in the Middle East, and it’s genuine peace… if Hamas misbehaves, they know there will be serious consequences.”

The president took the opportunity to recount US military actions against Iran’s nuclear capabilities, describing in detail what he deemed to be precision strikes by American forces. Defending his choice of the term “obliterated,” Trump noted: “The Atomic Energy Commission shortly after confirmed total obliteration. Even Iran admitted it.”

He criticized the media coverage of the operation, particularly targeting CNN. “Fake news against you. Fake news,” he remarked, defending the US pilots involved in the mission.

Echoing familiar campaign slogans, Trump invoked phrases like “fake news,” “Pocahontas,” and “AOC plus three,” which drew cheers from supporters. He joked about his prepared remarks, saying it was the first time he brought notes to a holiday dinner. “I’ve done so much for Israel that I need to read!” he quipped.

Hanukkah, also referred to as the Festival of Lights, celebrates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem and is marked by lighting the menorah over eight nights.

The White House has historically hosted Hanukkah celebrations as part of its outreach to the American Jewish community, merging religious observance with political implications.