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Tel Aviv, Israel — February 24, 2026 — The Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce (OJCC) hosted a senior economic delegation from the United States Embassy at its Israel headquarters in Tel Aviv for a high-level strategic working session focused on advancing U.S.–Israel trade policy, expanding bilateral investment, strengthening structured commercial collaboration, and reinforcing Israel’s global economic standing.
The U.S. delegation was led by Johann Schmonsees, Economic Counselor, and included John Iosefo, Economic Officer, and Hila Louwers, Economic Specialist, who traveled from Jerusalem to participate in the meeting.
Representing the Chamber’s Israel leadership were Gerry Storch, Shmuel Shifran, and Gena Panich, who played a central role in facilitating the dialogue and advancing the Chamber’s growing economic initiatives in Israel.
The session focused on practical implementation of U.S.–Israel trade policy and identifying concrete mechanisms to strengthen cross-border commerce. Discussions included enhancing regulatory coordination, improving market access for businesses in both countries, increasing bilateral investment flow, and developing clearer collaboration guidelines to accelerate commercial activity.
Participants emphasized the importance of structured business-to-government engagement to ensure that policy objectives translate into measurable private-sector outcomes. Forward-looking priorities included expanding sector-driven trade initiatives, supporting U.S. companies entering Israeli markets and Israeli firms expanding into the United States, promoting innovation partnerships, and strengthening capital flow between the two economies.
A significant component of the dialogue addressed enhancing Israel’s global image within the international business community. The conversation focused on countering misinformation, distorted narratives, and anti-Israel propaganda that can negatively affect investor sentiment and global commercial perception.
The meeting also acknowledged economic pressures stemming from the BDS (Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions) movement, as well as boycott efforts in international forums, including actions at the United Nations targeting Israeli companies. Participants underscored that expanded trade engagement, visible bilateral cooperation, and proactive economic diplomacy are among the most effective responses to such challenges.
“Strong economies defeat false narratives,” said Duvi Honig, Founder & CEO of the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce. “When American and Israeli businesses build, invest, and innovate together, it reinforces stability, confidence, and long-term growth. The most powerful answer to misinformation and economic pressure is measurable success and partnership.”
Honig also offered a special acknowledgment to the Chamber’s Israel leadership team. “I want to personally recognize our outstanding Israel team — Gerry Storch, Shmuel Shifran, and Gena Panich — whose dedication, professionalism, and strategic leadership continue to elevate our mission on the ground. Their work is instrumental in building meaningful bridges between government and the private sector.”
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to continued engagement and structured follow-up. Additional meetings have been scheduled in Jerusalem to further develop actionable initiatives and advance the shared objectives outlined during the session.
The Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce continues to serve as a bridge between government leadership and the private sector, facilitating partnerships that strengthen U.S.–Israel economic relations, expand global trade opportunities, and promote sustainable long-term growth.