JPOST: Former Canadian PM Stephen Harper honored by Israel Allies Foundation

Former Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper spoke to over 600 attendees of the Israel Allies Foundation (IAF) Gala Awards Dinner in Whitby, Canada on Thursday, the organization said, noting that Harper was ranked third on its list of Israel's Top 50 Christian allies due to his respect among activists for his pro-Israel policies while in office.

The gala was hosted in collaboration with Canada Christian College and sponsored by Canadian Jewish and Christian leaders, as well as numerous pro-Israel groups and ministries.

“I am deeply honored to be recognized by the Israel Allies Foundation in front of so many distinguished friends here at home in Canada,” Harper said. “I am proud to continue to use my voice in support of the State of Israel while addressing and forcefully denouncing the ongoing and very worrisome rise of antisemitism. My sincerest thanks to IAF for a very meaningful evening.”

Israel's ambassador to the United Nations, Gilad Erdan, also spoke at the event, where he praised Harper for his pro-Israel leadership.

“They say true friends are a rare blessing and I want to thank The Right Honourable Stephen Harper for being a steadfast friend of Israel and the Jewish people,” Erdan remarked. “When we stand up for what we believe and do not falter in our faith, we can achieve miracles.”

“Under former Prime Minister Harper's leadership, Canada showed the world what it means to stand up for what's right,” he added. “The IAF empowers leaders around the globe to stand up for the truth through its important faith-based diplomacy initiatives. It is a pleasure to participate in this event with some of Israel's staunchest defenders to send the strong message that Israel's bond with its Christian allies is everlasting.”

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