$18 million for lifesaving equipment and training for first responders
United Hatzalah, Israel’s pioneering emergency medical organization known for its inclusivity, shone a spotlight on unity and courage at its annual New York Gala, drawing over 1,700 guests in an evening marked by hope, resilience, and a shared commitment to saving lives.
The organization, which integrates more than 700 Arab Muslim and Christian volunteers alongside their Jewish colleagues, was celebrated for its unwavering dedication to providing emergency aid to all, regardless of religion or nationality.
These volunteers play a crucial role in United Hatzalah’s daily operations and rapid response efforts across Israel.
The gala, which quickly raised an astounding $18 million to train 1,200 new volunteer medics, honored the bravery of those on the front lines of Israel’s emergency medical services.
The event’s emotional centerpiece featured Steve Witkoff, United States Special Presidential Envoy for Peace Missions, who addressed attendees as both a diplomat and a passionate advocate for peace and humanitarian action.
A poignant moment unfolded as Witkoff joined Gala Chair Dr. Miriam Adelson, along with Noa Argamani and Eli Sharabi—two Israeli citizens recently freed from Hamas captivity—on stage.
Argamani, speaking with heartfelt gratitude and urgency, implored Witkoff to continue efforts for the release of all remaining hostages, including her boyfriend, Avinatan. Her words encapsulated the evening’s mission: to save lives, restore dignity, and reunite families.
The audience was deeply moved by stories of extraordinary resilience, including that of Dr. Tamar Shlezinger, recipient of the Greenberg Traurig Courage Award. On October 7th, Dr. Shlezinger, a volunteer with United Hatzalah’s Psychotrauma & Crisis Response Unit, provided twelve hours of life-saving support over the phone to two young children in crisis, guiding them to safety after their parents were killed and their sister abducted.
United Hatzalah founder Eli Beer, recognized for transforming emergency medicine in Israel and introducing the innovative ambucycle—a two-wheeled ambulance for rapid response—spoke passionately about the organization’s growth and impact.
Beer’s vision received a significant boost with a surprise $5 million donation from Dr. Miriam Adelson, earmarked to expand the ambucycle fleet.
The evening also celebrated the emergence of a new generation of philanthropic leaders.
Brandon Lutnick, representing the Lutnick family’s long standing support, and Alex Witkoff, serving as Young Leadership Chair, both called for continued commitment and courage from the next wave of supporters.
The event welcomed dignitaries including Ambassador David Friedman, Israel’s UN Representative Danny Danon, and former Intelligence Service Director Yossi Cohen.
Supported by title sponsors such as Greenberg Traurig, 3i, IsraJet, Safra National, and Cantor Fitzgerald, the gala underscored a collective vision: that compassion, innovation, and unity can heal and protect communities in times of crisis.
As the evening concluded, Eli Beer expressed the gratitude of many: “We are honored to have Steve Witkoff as protector of Israel and the Jewish people. In a room full of New York’s biggest philanthropists, it is Mr. Steve Witkoff who gave us the biggest gift possible: the release of dozens of hostages. That is a gift to all of Israel—and we will never forget it.”
For direct donations or inquiries, email office@unitedhatzalah.org