Israeli President Isaac Herzog visited U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee at the American embassy in Jerusalem on Friday to mark the upcoming 250th Independence Day of the United States. Herzog conveyed a letter of congratulations to President Donald Trump and the American people, ahead of Saturday's celebrations.
"I am extremely moved and happy to be here at the American embassy in Jerusalem, the capital of the State of Israel, at the embassy which was launched by President Trump in his historic recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital," Herzog stated during the visit.
He congratulated "the president, the Congress, the leadership and the people of the United States of America through you, Mr. Ambassador, on 250 years of independence." Herzog added, "American independence is one of the greatest moments in history, and it has changed the fate of humanity."
In his written message to Trump, Herzog characterized the anniversary as "a moment to honor the incredible triumph of the American spirit." He wrote that "the story of America has inspired humanity the world over," and that "America stands as a beacon of liberty, and as the leader of the free world."
Herzog also highlighted the strong relationship between the two nations. "This is also a time to express our deepest appreciation for the unique and unbreakable partnership between the United States of America and Israel," he wrote. "Our two nations draw from the same wellsprings of the Bible, and we share the same fundamental values of freedom, democracy and human dignity."
Huckabee welcomed Herzog, remarking, "This is a great time for all Americans to celebrate, but we’re not the only ones celebrating America’s 250th birthday. We have a very special guest at the U.S. Embassy today, President Isaac Herzog. Thank you, Mr. President. We’re honored to have you here and honored to call you a friend."
The Israeli president expressed gratitude for Trump's support of Israel, particularly concerning security and efforts to bring hostages home. "The people of Israel will never forget your tireless efforts to bring our beloved hostages home. May you continue to lead the Middle East and the world toward peace and security," Herzog wrote to Trump.
The U.S. Embassy was relocated from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem in May 2018, following the Trump administration's December 2017 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital.