Strick, the problem with using Romans 11 in that way is that Romans 11 says that all men have been made disobedient by God, so that he may have mercy on them all. In other words, according to Romans 11, everyone will be saved.

But most fundamentalist Christians do not believe this. They do not believe that Jews will automatically be saved. They believe that Jews will, in fact, go to Hell unless they convert to Christianity.

I can't speak for your friend, and fundamentalist Christianity is not monolithic, but certainly "accepting Jesus Christ" is essential for salvation to MOST fundamentalist Christians. Inasmuch as Jews do not accept Jesus, they are destined not to be saved.