Who flew Israel’s first F-35 mission? Meet the man taking the stage in New York

The Jerusalem Post is excited to announce that Major General (Ret.) Amir Eshel, a pivotal figure in the Israeli Air Force's history, will be a featured speaker at our upcoming Annual Conference in New York. Eshel commanded the historic first mission of the F-35 Adir for the IAF, a testament to Israel's advanced defense capabilities and strategic foresight.

His presence at the conference, which convenes distinguished members of the Israeli and American defense communities, underscores the critical importance of security in shaping the "new Middle East." Eshel's personal journey, including leading the symbolic flyover of Auschwitz as commander of Tel Nof Airbase, resonates deeply with the narrative of Jewish resilience and the establishment of a sovereign state capable of defending itself.

This year's conference theme, the "new Middle East," goes beyond political discourse to explore the tangible elements – the people, ideas, and partnerships – that are actively redefining the region. For us at The Jerusalem Post, and for our readers in Israel and the diaspora, understanding these evolving dynamics through the lens of experienced defense leaders like Eshel, alongside figures such as former IAF commander Amikam Norkin and U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Richard Y. Newton III, is paramount. It offers a unique perspective on the complex security landscape and the enduring strength required to navigate it.