Who’s the Woman Behind Trump’s Middle East Policies?

During his recent address before the Israeli Knesset, U.S. President Donald Trump paid tribute to Miriam Adelson — the influential Israeli-American physician, billionaire, and political power player he described as “exceptional.”

Adelson, widow of late casino magnate Sheldon Adelson, has been one of Trump’s most loyal supporters and one of the largest donors to his political campaigns.

Her strong pro-Israel stance and behind-the-scenes influence are widely seen as instrumental in shaping several of Trump’s landmark Middle East policies, including recognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, relocating the U.S. embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, and officially recognizing Israel’s sovereignty over the Golan Heights.

In 2018, Trump awarded her the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her political influence and dedication to strengthening U.S.-Israel relations.

Often described by media outlets as “the woman behind major decisions in the Middle East,” Adelson’s political and financial power continue to shape Washington’s engagement with Israel and the region, making her one of the most consequential figures in U.S. foreign policy circles.