‘Ironclad commitment’: President Biden congratulates Israel on Independence Day

President Joe Biden congratulated Israel on its 76th Independence Day, reaffirming the U.S. “ironclad” commitment to Israel’s security. 

In a greeting to President Herzog, Biden said: “The United States is proud of our enduring relationship with Israel. As the first country to recognise Israel as an independent state in 1948, our bonds are underpinned by shared democratic values, common interests, and cultural affinities.”

In his letter to Herzog, Biden also noted that the U.S. is “proud” of its  relationship with Israel.

“As the first country to recognise Israel as an independent state in 1948, our bonds are underpinned by shared democratic values, common interests, and cultural affinities,” he said.

“As I – a lifelong supporter of Israel and the only American president to visit Israel in wartime – made clear after Hamas’s attack, the United States’ commitment to Israel’s security is ironclad. It’s critical that our countries work together to increase security and peace for Israel and the entire region. I look forward to our nations’ continuing to work together to forge a brighter future for all our people,” he added.

The relationship with Israel and the U.S. has, however, been challenged repeatedly since October 7 due to Israel’s handling of the war against Hamas in Gaza.

The U.S. abstained from a vote in the UN Security Council calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, and thus allowing it to pass.

Last week, Biden threatened with halting more arms to Israel if the IDF launches a full invasion of Rafah.

Despite the many clashes in recent months, both Israel and the U.S. insist that their relationship is strong.