Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka at the Dedication of the Fijian Embassy in Jerusalem: "You recognize a truth that everybody should recognize, but few governments have so far. That this has been our capital for 3,000 years, since the days of King David."
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, today (Wednesday, 17 September 2025), attended the dedication of the Fijian Embassy in Jerusalem, together with Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and Foreign Affairs Minister Gideon Saar.
Prime Minister Netanyahu at the ceremony:
"It's a moving moment to have you here, with your ambassador, your staff, your delegation, our foreign minister, deputy foreign minister and all the friends who've gathered here at this important moment.
First of all, only one time you can be seventh. Then comes eighth, ninth; seven is an important number, it's a symbolic number in our tradition.; You're opening an embassy in the 'City on the Hill,' the city of Jerusalem.
Here, next to the walls of our ancient city, the prophets spoke, the kings of Israel ruled, and some of the greatest insights of human faith and values were inscribed here. They were etched in our hearts and in the hearts of people all over the world.
When I listened to your anthem just now, I heard words that came from Zion, from Israel, from here – from Jerusalem. The words that came from here. So we have a common bond, a common civilization, even though you are on the other side of the Earth in the middle of an ocean, happily surrounded by water. As long as it doesn't rise, it's very good.
But we are together over the years, in many instances, in many great issues, and the first one is peace. You mentioned it. You were a soldier of peace. You were in a peace-keeping force. The idea of peace, peace between nations, peace between men and women around the world. That idea that all human beings are endowed with the right to live, the right to be free, the idea that slavery wasn't permanent. Three thousand years ago, that was a crazy idea, that people are basically important in themselves, every individual. That is a bedrock of our common faith and our common values. So this is more than a political moment. It's a sharing of great values and great purposes.
These values are challenged in our region. We have just been engaged for close to two years in a seven-front war against those who don't accept anything that I've just said. They celebrate a cult of death, they wish to extinguish the life of the Jewish state, but they threaten the lives of all who share our values and all who share the core of our civilization. It's very important that we brothers help one another. I'm proud of the fact that we have been involved in the development of Fiji. We talked today about many other things we can do and we intend to take this on with much vigor and much enthusiasm.
But the most important thing is what we're doing now.
The fact that you have come here, and you have put your embassy in Jerusalem and you recognize a truth that everybody should recognize, but few governments have so far. That this has been our capital for 3,000 years, since the days of King David, and in many ways, you spoke about the fact that you enabled, you're very proud of the fact that the first ambassador, you accepted him into your house. Welcome to our house, Mr. Prime Minister, which is your house and the house of the people of Fiji."
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Okf1JVHLYgw
Video credit: Itay Beit-On (GPO) / Sound credit: Ben Peretz (GPO)
Attached photo credits: Amos Ben-Gershom (GPO)
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, today (Wednesday, 17 September 2025), attended the dedication of the Fijian Embassy in Jerusalem, together with Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and Foreign Affairs Minister Gideon Saar.
Prime Minister Netanyahu at the ceremony:
"It's a moving moment to have you here, with your ambassador, your staff, your delegation, our foreign minister, deputy foreign minister and all the friends who've gathered here at this important moment.
First of all, only one time you can be seventh. Then comes eighth, ninth; seven is an important number, it's a symbolic number in our tradition.; You're opening an embassy in the 'City on the Hill,' the city of Jerusalem.
Here, next to the walls of our ancient city, the prophets spoke, the kings of Israel ruled, and some of the greatest insights of human faith and values were inscribed here. They were etched in our hearts and in the hearts of people all over the world.
When I listened to your anthem just now, I heard words that came from Zion, from Israel, from here – from Jerusalem. The words that came from here. So we have a common bond, a common civilization, even though you are on the other side of the Earth in the middle of an ocean, happily surrounded by water. As long as it doesn't rise, it's very good.
But we are together over the years, in many instances, in many great issues, and the first one is peace. You mentioned it. You were a soldier of peace. You were in a peace-keeping force. The idea of peace, peace between nations, peace between men and women around the world. That idea that all human beings are endowed with the right to live, the right to be free, the idea that slavery wasn't permanent. Three thousand years ago, that was a crazy idea, that people are basically important in themselves, every individual. That is a bedrock of our common faith and our common values. So this is more than a political moment. It's a sharing of great values and great purposes.
These values are challenged in our region. We have just been engaged for close to two years in a seven-front war against those who don't accept anything that I've just said. They celebrate a cult of death, they wish to extinguish the life of the Jewish state, but they threaten the lives of all who share our values and all who share the core of our civilization. It's very important that we brothers help one another. I'm proud of the fact that we have been involved in the development of Fiji. We talked today about many other things we can do and we intend to take this on with much vigor and much enthusiasm.
But the most important thing is what we're doing now.
The fact that you have come here, and you have put your embassy in Jerusalem and you recognize a truth that everybody should recognize, but few governments have so far. That this has been our capital for 3,000 years, since the days of King David, and in many ways, you spoke about the fact that you enabled, you're very proud of the fact that the first ambassador, you accepted him into your house. Welcome to our house, Mr. Prime Minister, which is your house and the house of the people of Fiji."
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Okf1JVHLYgw
Video credit: Itay Beit-On (GPO) / Sound credit: Ben Peretz (GPO)
Attached photo credits: Amos Ben-Gershom (GPO)
Israel Ministry of Defense Spokesperson's Statement
Israel MOD and Rafael Announce: Development of High-Power Laser System Completed Delivery for IDF Operational Use Expected in the Near Term
The R&D Unit within the Israel Ministry of Defense (IMOD) Directorate of Defense Research & Development (DDR&D), the Israeli Air Force (IAF), and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems have successfully completed a series of tests lasting several weeks, demonstrating the capabilities of the Iron Beam high-power laser system, with Elbit Systems serving as a project partner manufacturing the laser source.
The test series, conducted at a facility in southern Israel, concludes the development phase and represents the final milestone before delivering the system to the IDF for operational deployment. The system proved its effectiveness in a complete operational configuration by intercepting rockets, mortars, aircraft, and UAVs across a comprehensive range of operational scenarios. The successful trials mark a critical milestone towards operational deployment, with the first systems set to be integrated into the IDF air defense arrays by year-end.
Iron Beam is a ground-based high-power laser air defense system designed to counter aerial threats, including rockets, mortars, and UAVs. It features an advanced targeting system that enables enhanced operational range, high precision, and superior efficiency while maintaining its unique advantage of rapidly neutralizing threats using laser technology at negligible cost. The R&D Unit within the Ministry’s DDR&D has spearheaded the system's development, working alongside primary developer Rafael.
The Iron Beam system represents a global technological and engineering breakthrough, expected to integrate into Israel's multi-layered defense array as a complementary capability to the Iron Dome, David's Sling, and Arrow air defense systems. The system utilizes Rafael's unique "adaptive optics" technology, enabling a stable, focused, and precise beam.
As announced last May, operational prototypes of Rafael’s short-range tactical laser systems have been deployed throughout the current war and have successfully intercepted and defeated dozens of threats. Now that the Iron Beam’s performance has been proven, we anticipate a significant leap in air defense capabilities through the deployment of these long-range laser weapon systems.
Defense Minister, Israel Katz: "Achieving operational laser interception capability places the State of Israel at the forefront of global military technology and makes Israel the first nation to possess this capability. This is not only a moment of national pride, but a historic milestone for our defense envelope: rapid, precise interception at marginal cost that joins our existing defense systems and changes the threat equation. I thank all the people in the defense establishment who brought us to this moment. This achievement is theirs, and the people of Israel have much to be proud of. Our enemies from Gaza, Iran, Lebanon, Yemen, and other arenas should know: just as we are strong in defense, we are strong in offense - and we will do everything to protect the security of Israeli citizens."
IMOD Director General, Maj. Gen. (Res.) Amir Baram: "Today marks the completion of our high-power laser system development - a historic milestone for Israel's defense establishment and defense industries. This is the first time in the world that a high-power laser interception system has reached full operational maturity, completing numerous interceptions across various simulated operational scenarios. The high-power laser system will integrate within Israel's multi-layered defense array, further enhancing multi-layered integration with additional missile interceptors through optimal cost-effectiveness and leveraging relative advantages against threat types, ranges, and environmental conditions."
Head of DDR&D, Brig. Gen. (Res.) Dr. Daniel Gold: "The Iron Beam system exemplifies the exceptional capabilities of our defense industries under the DDR&D’s leadership - combining creativity,
Israel MOD and Rafael Announce: Development of High-Power Laser System Completed Delivery for IDF Operational Use Expected in the Near Term
The R&D Unit within the Israel Ministry of Defense (IMOD) Directorate of Defense Research & Development (DDR&D), the Israeli Air Force (IAF), and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems have successfully completed a series of tests lasting several weeks, demonstrating the capabilities of the Iron Beam high-power laser system, with Elbit Systems serving as a project partner manufacturing the laser source.
The test series, conducted at a facility in southern Israel, concludes the development phase and represents the final milestone before delivering the system to the IDF for operational deployment. The system proved its effectiveness in a complete operational configuration by intercepting rockets, mortars, aircraft, and UAVs across a comprehensive range of operational scenarios. The successful trials mark a critical milestone towards operational deployment, with the first systems set to be integrated into the IDF air defense arrays by year-end.
Iron Beam is a ground-based high-power laser air defense system designed to counter aerial threats, including rockets, mortars, and UAVs. It features an advanced targeting system that enables enhanced operational range, high precision, and superior efficiency while maintaining its unique advantage of rapidly neutralizing threats using laser technology at negligible cost. The R&D Unit within the Ministry’s DDR&D has spearheaded the system's development, working alongside primary developer Rafael.
The Iron Beam system represents a global technological and engineering breakthrough, expected to integrate into Israel's multi-layered defense array as a complementary capability to the Iron Dome, David's Sling, and Arrow air defense systems. The system utilizes Rafael's unique "adaptive optics" technology, enabling a stable, focused, and precise beam.
As announced last May, operational prototypes of Rafael’s short-range tactical laser systems have been deployed throughout the current war and have successfully intercepted and defeated dozens of threats. Now that the Iron Beam’s performance has been proven, we anticipate a significant leap in air defense capabilities through the deployment of these long-range laser weapon systems.
Defense Minister, Israel Katz: "Achieving operational laser interception capability places the State of Israel at the forefront of global military technology and makes Israel the first nation to possess this capability. This is not only a moment of national pride, but a historic milestone for our defense envelope: rapid, precise interception at marginal cost that joins our existing defense systems and changes the threat equation. I thank all the people in the defense establishment who brought us to this moment. This achievement is theirs, and the people of Israel have much to be proud of. Our enemies from Gaza, Iran, Lebanon, Yemen, and other arenas should know: just as we are strong in defense, we are strong in offense - and we will do everything to protect the security of Israeli citizens."
IMOD Director General, Maj. Gen. (Res.) Amir Baram: "Today marks the completion of our high-power laser system development - a historic milestone for Israel's defense establishment and defense industries. This is the first time in the world that a high-power laser interception system has reached full operational maturity, completing numerous interceptions across various simulated operational scenarios. The high-power laser system will integrate within Israel's multi-layered defense array, further enhancing multi-layered integration with additional missile interceptors through optimal cost-effectiveness and leveraging relative advantages against threat types, ranges, and environmental conditions."
Head of DDR&D, Brig. Gen. (Res.) Dr. Daniel Gold: "The Iron Beam system exemplifies the exceptional capabilities of our defense industries under the DDR&D’s leadership - combining creativity,
innovation, and ingenuity with outstanding management and execution. We've achieved global technological superiority through deployment on the battlefield by successfully integrating conventional defense industries and startup companies. Following these successful trials, we're confident that combining laser and missile interceptors will significantly strengthen our defense envelope against rockets, missiles, UAVs, and emerging threats."
Head of the R&D Unit, Brig. Gen. Yehuda Elmakayes: "Completing the Iron Beam capability demonstration marks the dawn of the era of widespread laser systems. After years of development and engineering led by our R&D Unit, in partnership with the IAF, Rafael, Elbit, and our defense industries, we've reached the stage where high-power laser systems are integral to Israel's air defense array. Through the R&D Unit's leadership at the DDR&D, Iron Beam will be the first step toward integrating directed energy weapons across all IDF defense and maneuvering systems."
Rafael Chairman, Dr. Yuval Steinitz: "Rafael is the first and only company worldwide to successfully transform high-power laser technology into a fully mature, operational interception system capable of intercepting missiles and UAVs. We're immensely proud of Rafael's leadership in this operational and technological breakthrough. Today's complex trial results prove that the talented team behind the Iron Dome is again revolutionizing warfare with what we call the 'Laser Dome.' Rafael's laser system, built on our proprietary adaptive optics technology, will undoubtedly be a game-changing system with unprecedented impact on modern warfare."
Rafael CEO and President, Yoav Tourgeman: "Rafael proudly concludes this successful, comprehensive laser system trial series, which included numerous complex scenarios that the system handled excellently. Rafael leads the laser interception revolution with operational systems representing the world's most advanced technology. The ingenuity and boldness of Rafael's premier scientists and massive R&D investments have produced technological breakthroughs and a globally significant operational-technological achievement. Rafael's defense and offensive systems continue proving their battlefield effectiveness, contributing significantly to Israel's security and citizen protection. In the coming months, we'll deliver the first Iron Beam system from Rafael's production lines to the defense establishment - a system that will fundamentally change the defense equation by enabling precise, rapid, and cost-effective interception unmatched by any existing system."
Attached are images of the system, video footage, and soundbites from the IMOD and Rafael for your use.
Link for the images: https://www.jumbomail.me/j/4dGI4huj10uroRk
Link for the video footage: https://www.jumbomail.me/j/oeVeCH5Wd0q6psO
Link for the soundbites: https://www.jumbomail.me/j/i5eH-rhRH0q6Lba
Credit: Israel Ministry of Defense
For any media-related queries, please contact Nina Zaydenberg, IMOD Spokesperson to International Media: 0544622513 | 0506291093 | Dover@mod.gov.il
Media and Public Affairs Bureau
Israel Ministry of Defense
Head of the R&D Unit, Brig. Gen. Yehuda Elmakayes: "Completing the Iron Beam capability demonstration marks the dawn of the era of widespread laser systems. After years of development and engineering led by our R&D Unit, in partnership with the IAF, Rafael, Elbit, and our defense industries, we've reached the stage where high-power laser systems are integral to Israel's air defense array. Through the R&D Unit's leadership at the DDR&D, Iron Beam will be the first step toward integrating directed energy weapons across all IDF defense and maneuvering systems."
Rafael Chairman, Dr. Yuval Steinitz: "Rafael is the first and only company worldwide to successfully transform high-power laser technology into a fully mature, operational interception system capable of intercepting missiles and UAVs. We're immensely proud of Rafael's leadership in this operational and technological breakthrough. Today's complex trial results prove that the talented team behind the Iron Dome is again revolutionizing warfare with what we call the 'Laser Dome.' Rafael's laser system, built on our proprietary adaptive optics technology, will undoubtedly be a game-changing system with unprecedented impact on modern warfare."
Rafael CEO and President, Yoav Tourgeman: "Rafael proudly concludes this successful, comprehensive laser system trial series, which included numerous complex scenarios that the system handled excellently. Rafael leads the laser interception revolution with operational systems representing the world's most advanced technology. The ingenuity and boldness of Rafael's premier scientists and massive R&D investments have produced technological breakthroughs and a globally significant operational-technological achievement. Rafael's defense and offensive systems continue proving their battlefield effectiveness, contributing significantly to Israel's security and citizen protection. In the coming months, we'll deliver the first Iron Beam system from Rafael's production lines to the defense establishment - a system that will fundamentally change the defense equation by enabling precise, rapid, and cost-effective interception unmatched by any existing system."
Attached are images of the system, video footage, and soundbites from the IMOD and Rafael for your use.
Link for the images: https://www.jumbomail.me/j/4dGI4huj10uroRk
Link for the video footage: https://www.jumbomail.me/j/oeVeCH5Wd0q6psO
Link for the soundbites: https://www.jumbomail.me/j/i5eH-rhRH0q6Lba
Credit: Israel Ministry of Defense
For any media-related queries, please contact Nina Zaydenberg, IMOD Spokesperson to International Media: 0544622513 | 0506291093 | Dover@mod.gov.il
Media and Public Affairs Bureau
Israel Ministry of Defense
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Mossad Director David Barnea Awarded the Prime Minister’s Prize for Mossad Operations
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Mossad Director David Barnea, last night (Wednesday, 17 September 2025), attended the award ceremony for the Prime Minister’s Prize for Mossad operations in 2023-2024, and the toast ahead of the Jewish New Year, together with Mossad personnel and commanders, and colleagues from the intelligence and security communities.
The Prime Minister’s Prize is awarded for pioneering and inspirational operations, the security and intelligence contribution of which to the security of the State of Israel was exceptional. The operations that were chosen constitute the tip of the iceberg of the Mossad’s extensive efforts over the past two years in dealing with the many threats and challenges facing the State of Israel, and in ensuring Israel’s intelligence and technological superiority.
(All remarks are translated from Hebrew.)
Prime Minister Netanyahu on the operation in Iran:
“This operation was done with great efforts, one of which was very great. I decided to call it ‘Operation Rising Lion’. Why a lion? Because the people rose up. The entire people rose up.”
Prime Minister Netanyahu added:
“Then we spoke here about Haniyeh. It was not a simple operation. And Nasrallah? Not a simple operation, nor was it self-evident. You have pagers here? And the pagers. Of course, I knew that it was not the pagers but the people, the work. This was the first large-scale targeted counter-terrorist operation in history.
We have met over the years and each time I talk to you about the thing that truly is the most important and it is the existential threat posed by Iran’s intentions, as well as its actions, to arm itself with nuclear weapons.
Here we were forced to take immediate action because if we hadn’t acted, within a year this threat would have been over our heads, and would have beheaded the country, and I note that you had a major part in this, that we reached that moment, and not beforehand, because I appreciate that your actions, which almost no other element did, had important help of course, but most of the operation was carried out by the Mossad.
I came here to tell you that I am convinced that the people of Israel, this lion people, has the forces, the strength of spirit, the creativity, the heroism, the daring and the determination to ensure its future, for us, our children, our grandchildren and the generations that will follow us.”
Mossad Director Barnea praised the personnel of the agency:
“Exactly one year and two hours ago, at 15:30, the Prime Minister gave the order to carry out the pagers operation which was followed by plans for an IDF assault to defeat Nasrallah and banish the threat on our northern border.
The elimination of Nasrallah and the Hezbollah leadership ten days later ended whatever weak hopes they had left. The spirit of the enemy was broken.
In the past year, another historic event was realized, perhaps the greatest of all – Operation Rising Lion. Led by the IDF, and in cooperation with the Mossad, we managed to land a harsh and painful blow on the enemy, which posed an existential threat to the State of Israel. The Mossad worked for many years and brought to the fore its relative advantages. We implemented a series of imaginative operations, one after the other. The IDF, first and foremost, with its great capabilities, and the Mossad at its side, succeeded in tipping the balance in the war.
We won and we will continue to win.
We indeed proved that Iran is penetrable but we did not relent. The Mossad has very good capabilities for action, more imaginative than in the past, and greater strength mainly inside Iran and also in the heart of Tehran. We proved our capabilities and also what we are prepared to do to safeguard the security of Israel. We will continue to build and strengthen our capabilities in Iran. We will open our eyes inside Iran on what is happening in their innermost rooms, and we will not allow ideas that are liable to harm
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Mossad Director David Barnea, last night (Wednesday, 17 September 2025), attended the award ceremony for the Prime Minister’s Prize for Mossad operations in 2023-2024, and the toast ahead of the Jewish New Year, together with Mossad personnel and commanders, and colleagues from the intelligence and security communities.
The Prime Minister’s Prize is awarded for pioneering and inspirational operations, the security and intelligence contribution of which to the security of the State of Israel was exceptional. The operations that were chosen constitute the tip of the iceberg of the Mossad’s extensive efforts over the past two years in dealing with the many threats and challenges facing the State of Israel, and in ensuring Israel’s intelligence and technological superiority.
(All remarks are translated from Hebrew.)
Prime Minister Netanyahu on the operation in Iran:
“This operation was done with great efforts, one of which was very great. I decided to call it ‘Operation Rising Lion’. Why a lion? Because the people rose up. The entire people rose up.”
Prime Minister Netanyahu added:
“Then we spoke here about Haniyeh. It was not a simple operation. And Nasrallah? Not a simple operation, nor was it self-evident. You have pagers here? And the pagers. Of course, I knew that it was not the pagers but the people, the work. This was the first large-scale targeted counter-terrorist operation in history.
We have met over the years and each time I talk to you about the thing that truly is the most important and it is the existential threat posed by Iran’s intentions, as well as its actions, to arm itself with nuclear weapons.
Here we were forced to take immediate action because if we hadn’t acted, within a year this threat would have been over our heads, and would have beheaded the country, and I note that you had a major part in this, that we reached that moment, and not beforehand, because I appreciate that your actions, which almost no other element did, had important help of course, but most of the operation was carried out by the Mossad.
I came here to tell you that I am convinced that the people of Israel, this lion people, has the forces, the strength of spirit, the creativity, the heroism, the daring and the determination to ensure its future, for us, our children, our grandchildren and the generations that will follow us.”
Mossad Director Barnea praised the personnel of the agency:
“Exactly one year and two hours ago, at 15:30, the Prime Minister gave the order to carry out the pagers operation which was followed by plans for an IDF assault to defeat Nasrallah and banish the threat on our northern border.
The elimination of Nasrallah and the Hezbollah leadership ten days later ended whatever weak hopes they had left. The spirit of the enemy was broken.
In the past year, another historic event was realized, perhaps the greatest of all – Operation Rising Lion. Led by the IDF, and in cooperation with the Mossad, we managed to land a harsh and painful blow on the enemy, which posed an existential threat to the State of Israel. The Mossad worked for many years and brought to the fore its relative advantages. We implemented a series of imaginative operations, one after the other. The IDF, first and foremost, with its great capabilities, and the Mossad at its side, succeeded in tipping the balance in the war.
We won and we will continue to win.
We indeed proved that Iran is penetrable but we did not relent. The Mossad has very good capabilities for action, more imaginative than in the past, and greater strength mainly inside Iran and also in the heart of Tehran. We proved our capabilities and also what we are prepared to do to safeguard the security of Israel. We will continue to build and strengthen our capabilities in Iran. We will open our eyes inside Iran on what is happening in their innermost rooms, and we will not allow ideas that are liable to harm
our security to grow.
Prime Minister, on behalf of all the men and women of the Mossad, thank you for the backing that you have given us to lead these imaginative operations. One needs a developed imagination, and leadership, not only to guide these operations but also to approve them.
We will continue to act, next year as well, in light of the Mossad vision – ‘We will strive for excellence and turn vision into reality.”
Attached photo credits: Amos Ben-Gershom (GPO)
Prime Minister, on behalf of all the men and women of the Mossad, thank you for the backing that you have given us to lead these imaginative operations. One needs a developed imagination, and leadership, not only to guide these operations but also to approve them.
We will continue to act, next year as well, in light of the Mossad vision – ‘We will strive for excellence and turn vision into reality.”
Attached photo credits: Amos Ben-Gershom (GPO)
(Communicated by the President's Spokesperson)
Thursday, 18 September 2025 / 25 Elul 5785
President Herzog meets Prime Minister Rabuka of Fiji
President Isaac Herzog today, Thursday, at the President’s Residence, met with the Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka of Fiji who was visiting Jerusalem for the opening of his nation’s embassy, along with several senior ministers in his government.
During the meeting, the President spoke of the breaking news of the attack on Israelis at the Allenby Crossing.
President Herzog welcomed the Prime Minister and said: “I want to thank you on behalf of the nation of Israel for opening the Embassy in Jerusalem yesterday, it's a big step. Bless you.”
He said, “This is not an easy day. We have just heard that Israeli citizens were shot at the bridge with Jordan because terrorists want to derail our relations with Jordan. We send our heartfelt condolences to the families, and we hope things will be better, and especially we want to see the hostages back.”
Attached photo credit: Amos Ben Gershom / GPO
Video link: https://www.jumbomail.me/j/mF6MUoR1O0y8HL9/u/76635533506836365433633D?utm_source=jmemail&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=sent
Video credit: Itay Beit-On / GPO
Sound credit: Nir Scharf / GPO
Jason Pearlman, 052-6328795
Thursday, 18 September 2025 / 25 Elul 5785
President Herzog meets Prime Minister Rabuka of Fiji
President Isaac Herzog today, Thursday, at the President’s Residence, met with the Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka of Fiji who was visiting Jerusalem for the opening of his nation’s embassy, along with several senior ministers in his government.
During the meeting, the President spoke of the breaking news of the attack on Israelis at the Allenby Crossing.
President Herzog welcomed the Prime Minister and said: “I want to thank you on behalf of the nation of Israel for opening the Embassy in Jerusalem yesterday, it's a big step. Bless you.”
He said, “This is not an easy day. We have just heard that Israeli citizens were shot at the bridge with Jordan because terrorists want to derail our relations with Jordan. We send our heartfelt condolences to the families, and we hope things will be better, and especially we want to see the hostages back.”
Attached photo credit: Amos Ben Gershom / GPO
Video link: https://www.jumbomail.me/j/mF6MUoR1O0y8HL9/u/76635533506836365433633D?utm_source=jmemail&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=sent
Video credit: Itay Beit-On / GPO
Sound credit: Nir Scharf / GPO
Jason Pearlman, 052-6328795
JUMBOMail
JUMBOmail - View and Download files
Download and view files sent via JUMBOmail - The best way to send your files anywhere.
Statement by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, this evening (Thursday, 18 September 2025) [translated from Hebrew]:
"This is a difficult evening. I send the condolences of the entire people to the families of Lt.-Col. (Res.) Yitzhak Harosh and Sgt. Oran Hershko, who were killed today in an abhorrent terrorist attack at the Allenby Crossing.
Four of our heroic fighters fell in battle today: Maj. Omri Chai ben Moshe, a company commander in the Dekel Battalion, and three cadets – Lt. Ron Arieli, Lt. Eitan Avner ben Itzhak and Lt. Eran Shelem.
They fought bravely for the defeat of Hamas and the return of all of our hostages. My wife and I, together with the entire people of Israel send our heartfelt condolences to their families and wish the wounded a speedy recovery.
In the spirit of their heroism and in the strength of the souls of our fighters, we will continue to strike our enemies forcefully until we complete our war objectives.
May their memories be blessed. May G-d avenge them."
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, this evening (Thursday, 18 September 2025) [translated from Hebrew]:
"This is a difficult evening. I send the condolences of the entire people to the families of Lt.-Col. (Res.) Yitzhak Harosh and Sgt. Oran Hershko, who were killed today in an abhorrent terrorist attack at the Allenby Crossing.
Four of our heroic fighters fell in battle today: Maj. Omri Chai ben Moshe, a company commander in the Dekel Battalion, and three cadets – Lt. Ron Arieli, Lt. Eitan Avner ben Itzhak and Lt. Eran Shelem.
They fought bravely for the defeat of Hamas and the return of all of our hostages. My wife and I, together with the entire people of Israel send our heartfelt condolences to their families and wish the wounded a speedy recovery.
In the spirit of their heroism and in the strength of the souls of our fighters, we will continue to strike our enemies forcefully until we complete our war objectives.
May their memories be blessed. May G-d avenge them."
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the ISA Jewish New Year Toast: "You have saved many lives, in Judea and Samaria as well, also in Gaza, in rescue operations. I thank you for the huge efforts on behalf of the security of Israel."
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, last night (Thursday, 18 September 2025), at the ISA headquarters, met with the ISA Acting Director and the ISA Staff Forum for a toast to the Jewish New Year.
The Prime Minister spoke with the ISA senior staff forum about the expected challenges in all of the sectors and praised them for their activity [translated from Hebrew]:
"I really want to thank you for the huge efforts on behalf of the security of Israel. You have saved many lives, in Judea and Samaria as well, also in Gaza, you saved lives in rescue operations, and you are engaged in many operations that the people and citizens of Israel do not know about, but which I know about.
On behalf of the State of Israel, I would like to express appreciation to the Israeli Security Agency. I would also like to thank you (ISA Acting Director) for your good and important leadership, and to all of you, for your dedication and work, and the results."
Attached photo credits: Ma'ayan Toaf (GPO)
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, last night (Thursday, 18 September 2025), at the ISA headquarters, met with the ISA Acting Director and the ISA Staff Forum for a toast to the Jewish New Year.
The Prime Minister spoke with the ISA senior staff forum about the expected challenges in all of the sectors and praised them for their activity [translated from Hebrew]:
"I really want to thank you for the huge efforts on behalf of the security of Israel. You have saved many lives, in Judea and Samaria as well, also in Gaza, you saved lives in rescue operations, and you are engaged in many operations that the people and citizens of Israel do not know about, but which I know about.
On behalf of the State of Israel, I would like to express appreciation to the Israeli Security Agency. I would also like to thank you (ISA Acting Director) for your good and important leadership, and to all of you, for your dedication and work, and the results."
Attached photo credits: Ma'ayan Toaf (GPO)
Dear all,
The *National Public Diplomacy Directorate in the Prime Minister's Office* would like to invite you to an on the record briefing regarding current developments with our new Spokeswoman Shosh Badrosian. *TODAY 15.30, SUNDAY 21st SEPT 2025, ISRAEL TIME.*
This issue and others will be addressed:
- *Prime Minister Netanyahu at the UN General Assembly in New York and the White House.*
The briefing will be held via zoom *in ENGLISH, today SUNDAY 21th SEPTEMBER at 15.30 Israel time.*
Zoom link:
https://contactgbs.zoom.us/j/83003602034?pwd=V29rTEpweUhUWHpDSTYraGZ6VFJ4Zz09
Please make sure you display your name and media outlet.
Best Wishes,
National Public Diplomacy Directorate
PMO
The *National Public Diplomacy Directorate in the Prime Minister's Office* would like to invite you to an on the record briefing regarding current developments with our new Spokeswoman Shosh Badrosian. *TODAY 15.30, SUNDAY 21st SEPT 2025, ISRAEL TIME.*
This issue and others will be addressed:
- *Prime Minister Netanyahu at the UN General Assembly in New York and the White House.*
The briefing will be held via zoom *in ENGLISH, today SUNDAY 21th SEPTEMBER at 15.30 Israel time.*
Zoom link:
https://contactgbs.zoom.us/j/83003602034?pwd=V29rTEpweUhUWHpDSTYraGZ6VFJ4Zz09
Please make sure you display your name and media outlet.
Best Wishes,
National Public Diplomacy Directorate
PMO
Zoom
Join our Cloud HD Video Meeting
Zoom is the leader in modern enterprise cloud communications.
(Communicated by the President's Spokesperson)
Sunday, 21 September 2025 / 28 Elul 5785
President Herzog in Rosh Hashanah Message to World Jewry: “Not an easy time to be a Jew in the world.”
”Israel’s fight is a just one. It is a fight in defense of the entire Free World.”
From the President’s Residence in Jerusalem, President Isaac Herzog conveyed his heartfelt greetings to Jewish communities across the globe on the occasion of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year.
In his message, the President spoke of unity and resilience in the face of immense challenges, reaffirming the unbreakable bonds of the Jewish people and Israel’s central role in defending both its citizens and the values of the Free World.
Reflecting on the struggles of recent years, President Herzog praised Jewish communities worldwide for their courage and dignity in standing against antisemitism, calling for the release of the hostages, supporting Israel, and remaining steadfast in their Jewish identities. He emphasized that “all Jews have a place and a voice in Israel” and highlighted his Kol Ha’am – Voice of the People initiative, designed to foster dialogue across world Jewry and Israeli society.
Looking ahead, the President expressed confidence in Israeli democracy as the nation prepares for elections, and closed with a prayer for the safe return of the hostages held in Gaza and a blessing for the year ahead.
Sunday, 21 September 2025 / 28 Elul 5785
President Herzog in Rosh Hashanah Message to World Jewry: “Not an easy time to be a Jew in the world.”
”Israel’s fight is a just one. It is a fight in defense of the entire Free World.”
From the President’s Residence in Jerusalem, President Isaac Herzog conveyed his heartfelt greetings to Jewish communities across the globe on the occasion of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year.
In his message, the President spoke of unity and resilience in the face of immense challenges, reaffirming the unbreakable bonds of the Jewish people and Israel’s central role in defending both its citizens and the values of the Free World.
Reflecting on the struggles of recent years, President Herzog praised Jewish communities worldwide for their courage and dignity in standing against antisemitism, calling for the release of the hostages, supporting Israel, and remaining steadfast in their Jewish identities. He emphasized that “all Jews have a place and a voice in Israel” and highlighted his Kol Ha’am – Voice of the People initiative, designed to foster dialogue across world Jewry and Israeli society.
Looking ahead, the President expressed confidence in Israeli democracy as the nation prepares for elections, and closed with a prayer for the safe return of the hostages held in Gaza and a blessing for the year ahead.