‘At every moment, Israel must be strong, free and secure, with a powerful army that can defend its citizens.’ (Courtesy of FIDF) Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid joined more than ­­500 Friends of the IDF (FIDF) supporters from across the country to salute Israel’s brave soldiers at the FIDF National New York Gala on September 20. This was Prime Minister Lapid’s first visit to the U.S. since he took office in July.