7–10, the ICJP Steering Committee unanimously selected U.S. Rep. Gary L. Ackerman to serve as the organization's president. During the 2006 meeting, Israel's foreign minister, Silvan Shalom, addressed the attendees. Then-Prime Minister Ariel Sharon's planned address to the group was rendered impossible due to Sharon's hospitalization following a stroke; instead, members of the ICJP visited Sharon in the hospital and held a prayer vigil for his recovery. Membership Membership in the ICJP is open to: Jewish members of national parliaments and of the European Parliament, cabinet or deputy ministers who currently hold office; and A permanent delegation of ten percent of the Knesset who will participate in the activities of the Council. (Note: Where a country has no Jewish representation in its parliament, former Jewish parliamentarians may be considered by the Executive for membership, ad personam. Membership will also be open to outstanding former parliamentarians who can inspire present-day leaders as determined by the Executive.) To participate, Members must accept the mission of the ICJP. External links ICJP Homepage World Jewish Congress ICJP page Jewish political organizations International political organizations Legislators