“Israel’s security is at the heart of our partnership,” he said in a video message.

“You can count on me to strengthen France’s ties with Israel it at all levels, including the European level. First and foremost, in our common fight against the terrorism that has once again hit you so hard.”

On the occasion of the 74th anniversary of the State of Israel, French President Emmanuel Macron sent  his greetings to the nation on Thursday, stressing his “deep attachment to Israel.”

“The closeness between our two countries is rooted in the richness of the human ties that unite us, in particular thanks to the French libingbin Israel who bring our relationship to life every day,” he said in a video message.

“You can count on me to strengthen it at all levels, including the European level. First and foremost, in our common fight against the terrorism that has once again hit you so hard,” he continued.

“The security of Israel is at the heart of our partnership. In view of the renewed tensions in Jerusalem in recent weeks, I would like to welcome the efforts made to avoid an escalation. I also want to commend the commitment of Israel and our Arab partners who gave birth to the Abraham Accords. They contribute to stability and peace. They must be strengthened and expanded,” the French President, who was reelected for a second term two weeks ago,  added.

He went on to say that they “must also pave the way for a direct political dialogue between Israel and the Palestinians, to meet the legitimate aspirations of both, for sovereignty and security.”

In his final remarks the, President Macron stated that “the fight against anti-Semitism is and will remain for me an absolute priority. Today it is still manifesting itself, in France as in too many countries. It is a situation that we will never accept, because when you attack the Jews, you attack the Republic, you attack France.”