Heads of state from across the globe sent President Reuven Rivlin and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu greetings in honor of Israel's 72nd anniversary.
“The United States of America proudly joins you in commemorating the 72nd anniversary of Israel’s independence,” US President Donald Trump wrote.
He added that the US was the first country to recognize Israel in 1948 when it was established and said the close US-Israeli relationship is “built on our deeply rooted shared values.” In addition to Trump, the Queen of England Elizabeth II sent her warm wishes for Independence Day and wished the people of Israel well during these difficult times, referencing the coronavirus outbreak. Russian President Vladimir Putin wished "health success, peace and prosperity" in his greeting. The King of Thailand Maha Vajiralongkorn extended his wish of "Good fortune" to the state of Israel. German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier expressed his deep regret the coronavirus pandemic prevented him from visiting Israel and celebrating Independence Day in person.He wrote to Rivlin that "you can be sure this is just a postponing, and I'll arrive to pay you and the citizens of the State of Israel a visit at the first chance [I get]."Rivlin not only received Independence Day messages, but also tweeted one of his own.
Chag Atzmaut Sameach, #Israel! https://t.co/gK6gPWYDxd
— Reuven Rivlin (@PresidentRuvi) April 28, 2020
Netanyahu also received greetings from various world leaders including Trump, Putin, Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky and others in honor of Israel’s 72nd Independence Day.
“This is but one accomplishment out of many meaningful steps taking by the administration I lead to rebuild US-Israeli relations,” Trump wrote about his decision to move the US Embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.
Putin sent his “warm wishes,” adding that Russia and Israel are engaged in a “meaningful diplomatic dialog.” Putin also stated that the bilateral relationship between the nations “serve the vital interests of the Russian people and those of the Israeli people while also promoting stability and security in the Middle East.”
Ukranian President Volodymyr Zelensky voiced his admiration to the “prosperous democracy” Israel built. He called Israel “a true friend and a loyal ally of Ukraine” and expressed his confidence that a unity government led by Netanyahu will be able to overcome the threats posed by coronavirus.
Other leaders who sent their wishes include Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades."I was happy to accept, in your name, greetings from leaders around the world in honor of the Israel’s 72nd Independence Day,” Netanyahu tweeted on his Hebrew Twitter page. He added a link to his Facebook page where he can be seen shaking hands with Trump and Putin on two separate occasions.
Israelis, who usually mark Independence Day with large celebrations and BBQs, are celebrating at home this year, as the country went on lockdown for the holiday.