Confirmation has been made by the office of Israeli President Isaac Herzog that he will commence his highly anticipated trip to the United States on Monday.
The highlight of the president’s trip will be his address to Congress, marking the second time in history that an Israeli president speaks before a joint session of the American Congress. The precedent was established over 35 years ago when his father, Chaim Herzog, the sixth president of Israel, delivered a speech there.
In a recent development, Herzog received an invitation to the White House from U.S. President Joe Biden, while a similar invitation has not yet been extended to Israel’s Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu.
This official visit occurs against the backdrop of tensions surrounding Iran’s nuclear capabilities. The Biden administration is striving to salvage a deal that would reinstate international oversight of Iran’s civilian nuclear program in exchange for relief from economic sanctions. However, Israel opposes such an agenda.
Another area of contention between the Biden and Netanyahu administrations is the contentious judicial reform in Israel. Herzog, known for his moderate stance, has been actively mediating between the government and the opposition during what he describes as a “national crisis.” Interestingly, he appears to share at least some of Biden’s criticisms regarding the reform.
During his time in the United States, Herzog will also visit the United Nations Headquarters in New York, where he is scheduled to meet with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. Additionally, he will hold meetings with New York Governor Kathy Hokul and New York City Mayor Eric Adams. Herzog will attend a celebratory event organized by the Jewish Federation of New York, representing the largest Jewish community outside of Israel.
According to the president’s office, the primary aim of this diplomatic visit is to strengthen the relationship and partnership between the United States and Israel. It underscores the deep ties between the two countries that transcend any disagreements on various issues.
Herzog will be accompanied on his week-long tour by Leah Goldin, whose son Hadar was killed during the 2014 Gaza war and whose body is currently held by Hamas.
{Matzav.com Israel}
He should not go. Its an insult to Bibi and he is being played by Biden etc.
Herzog feels honored when he’s invited by a US president – even if fake. Bibi doesn’t need a fake president to be honored. He gets to meet President Trump from time to time.