Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu calls Joe Biden “a great friend of Israel,” and thanks President Trump for taking the U.S.-Israel alliance to “unprecedented heights.”
Relations between Israel and its “closest and most important ally” were stronger than any political leadership and was “rooted deeply in our shared values” and “commitment to freedom and democracy,” said President Rivlin.
”I look forward to continuing to deepen the steadfast bond and strong defense ties between our peoples, as allies in the effort to strengthen democracy, stability, and peace worldwide,” said Defense Minister Benny added Gantz, who is also alternate Prime Minister.
By JNS and EJP
Israel’s president and prime minister on Sunday congratulated Joe Biden on his election as the 46th president of the United States and conveyed messages of gratitude to U.S. President Donald Trump.
“I send the blessings of the Israeli people and of the State of Israel to our friend Joe Biden on your election as the 46th President of the United States of America. I also send congratulations and best wishes for your success, Vice President-elect Kamala Harris,” Israeli President Reuven Rivlin said in a statement.
Relations between Israel and its “closest and most important ally” were stronger than any political leadership and was “rooted deeply in our shared values” and “commitment to freedom and democracy,” he said.
The Israeli president thanked Trump for “four years of partnership in strengthening Israel’s security,” and the American people for their “steadfast support and friendship.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin tweeted: “Congratulations @JoeBiden and @KamalaHarris. Joe, we’ve had a long & warm personal relationship for nearly 40 years, and I know you as a great friend of Israel. I look forward to working with both of you to further strengthen the special alliance between the U.S. and Israel.”
The Israeli premier added, “Thank you @realDonaldTrump for the friendship you have shown the state of Israel and me personally, for recognizing Jerusalem and the Golan, for standing up to Iran, for the historic peace accords and for bringing the American-Israeli alliance to unprecedented heights.”
Rivlin concluded his statement by wishing Biden and his future administration great success “on behalf of the Israeli people,” and extending an invitation to visit Jerusalem.
Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz was the first high-ranking member of the government to welcome Biden’s election .
“As the election results become final, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to @JoeBiden, a long-time supporter and friend of Israel, and to his running mate,
@KamalaHarris, who has made history as the first woman elected VP.” Gantz tweeted in English at around 4 a.m. Israel time, just as Biden was delivering his victory speech.
“I look forward to continuing to deepen the steadfast bond and strong defense ties between our peoples, as allies in the effort to strengthen democracy, stability, and peace worldwide,” added Gantz, who is alternate prime minister and slated to replace Netanyahu in November 2021, 11 months after Biden is set to take office.