“In a world too often fractured by division, a voice can rise like a beacon — carrying with it a profound message of healing, unity, and hope that resonates across borders and hearts alike.”
There are evenings that stay with you long after the lights go down — moments when music, community, and shared purpose converge into something that feels genuinely sacred. For Lital Dervish-Gottlieb, the upcoming IAC Gala San Diego 2026 promises to be exactly such a moment.
Writing with warmth and anticipation, Lital shares what this gathering means to her — and why, at this particular moment in history, it carries a significance that goes far beyond celebration.
A Friendship Forged in Song and Purpose
Among the moments Lital is most eagerly anticipating is the opportunity to welcome her dear friend onto the stage — a Lebanese singer-songwriter and ambassador for peace whose music has long transcended the boundaries of conflict and politics.
Carine Atieh Bassilli
A rare voice of healing and reconciliation, Carine Atieh Bassilli carries a profound message of unity that resonates across borders. Each time she and Lital share the stage in song and prayer, it is described as a sacred moment — a reminder of the power of shared humanity to transcend division, hostility, and political fracture.
“Each time she invites me to join her on stage in song and prayer, it feels like a sacred moment — an opportunity to stand together in harmony and remind ourselves of the power of shared humanity.”
— Lital Dervish-GottliebThat a Lebanese artist and an Israeli community leader find common ground not in spite of their backgrounds but because of a shared commitment to peace is itself a powerful statement — one that the IAC Gala is uniquely positioned to amplify.
Honoring Those Who Build Community
The evening will also celebrate this year’s extraordinary honorees — individuals whose dedication, compassion, and service have left an indelible mark on their communities. Lital speaks of them with deep admiration, describing their contributions as a testament to the strength and spirit that bind people together even in difficult times.
The IAC Gala San Diego 2026 brings together community leaders, artists, advocates, and supporters under the theme Strength in Unity — a gathering designed not only to honor achievement, but to renew collective resolve at a moment when Israel’s right to exist and the democratic values it embodies face real and present challenges.
📅 IAC Gala San Diego 2026 — Event Details
Why This Moment Matters
Lital’s reflection is not only an invitation to an evening of celebration — it is a call to solidarity. At a time when Israel stands resolute, defending not only her right to exist but also the democratic values cherished across free societies, she writes that collective support for the IAC and the broader community carries even greater significance.
“At a time when Israel stands resolute, defending not only her right to exist but also the democratic values we cherish, our collective support for the vital work of the IAC and our community carries even greater significance. It is through unity, resilience, and unwavering hope that we move forward.”
— Lital Dervish-GottliebThe IAC — the Israeli-American Council — has long served as a bridge between Israeli identity and American civic life, nurturing communities, strengthening cultural connections, and advocating for Israel’s security and legitimacy on the global stage. This year’s gala comes at a moment when those twin missions feel more urgent than ever.
An Invitation to Join
Lital closes her reflection with a heartfelt invitation — not just to attend an event, but to be part of something larger: a community that chooses hope over despair, unity over division, and music and shared humanity over silence and isolation.
“I truly hope you will join us for what promises to be a deeply moving and unforgettable evening.” — Lital Dervish-Gottlieb
Register and learn more at iac360.org/strength-in-unity-san-diego-2026
Lital Dervish-Gottlieb
Lital Dervish-Gottlieb is a passionate community leader and advocate for Israeli-American solidarity, interfaith connection, and the power of music and culture to build bridges across divides. She is a proud supporter of the Israeli-American Council and its mission to strengthen the ties between Israeli and American communities.