Jewish Federation CEO Reflects on Pride Trip to Tel Aviv Amid Rising Tensions

The Jewish Federation of the Desert is speaking out following a Pride celebration in Tel Aviv that shifted dramatically after a bombing last Friday. Danny Laban, CEO of the Rancho Mirage-based nonprofit, shared with NBC Palm Springs that 100 LGBTQ+ Jewish leaders had traveled to Israel to stand in solidarity with the Israeli people during Tel Aviv Pride.

The trip, organized by the Jewish Federation of North America, was meant to uplift and unify—but instead unfolded during a period of heightened conflict. Laban described the moment the group was alerted to the bombing.

"I remember hearing the voice on the loudspeaker. It was a live voice saying, ‘Wake up, wake up. Israel and Iran are at war. Go to the shelter,’" Laban recalled.

Despite the frightening turn of events, Laban emphasized that all volunteers from the Jewish Federation of the Desert returned home safely. He said the experience did not feel like a failed mission, but rather a renewed call to action.

“When something happens in Israel or to the Jewish people anywhere around the world, that is when federations move into action, step up, raise resources, and determine how best to bring those resources to vulnerable populations and to those who need them the most,” said Laban.

Over the past 20 months, the Federation has helped raise more than $850 million in support of Israel. The organization is also planning a community forum to provide updates and further rally support.

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