Chris Christie in Israel. Photo: Anav Silverman/Tazpit News Agency.

JNS.org – After New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, a possible GOP contender for U.S. president in 2016, garnered much pro-Israel criticism for his March “occupied territories” remark at the Sheldon Adelson-hosted Republican Jewish Coalition retreat in Las Vegas, Christie got another chance to appeal to Jewish donors on Sunday.

Christie gave a keynote speech at the Champions of Jewish Values International Awards Gala in New York City, where he called for a more aggressive U.S. foreign policy, even “in some very messy, difficult places.”

“The rest of the world watches in desperation and hope that America will realize and act upon once again its indispensable place in the world,” Christie said.

While Christie did not mention Israel this time, he did say that U.S. leaders need to send “clear and consistent signals” to nations America supports, as well as to those it does not.

“We will either lead or disappoint. Those are the only two choices. Unfortunately, today, in my opinion, America is disappointing. But it’s not too late,” the governor said.