‘May his memory be a blessing’ — Israel pays tribute to Prince Philip

President Reuven Rivlin led tributes in Israel to the Duke of Edinburgh, who died on Friday morning at the age of 99.

In a tweet the president offered his “deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathy” to the Queen and Prince of Wales.

He also mentioned the Royal Family and the people of the United Kingdom in the message.

“May his memory be a blessing,” Rivlin added.

Condolences also came from Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel’s prime minister, on Friday afternoon.

He said the Duke of Edinburgh “was the consummate public servant and will be much missed in Israel and across the world.”

Lior Haiat, spokesperson for Israel’s foreign ministry, said Philip would be sorely missed not least because of his mother.

“His mother, Princess Alice, saved the life of a Jewish family in Athens during World War II, and was recognised by Yad Vashem with its highest honour as a Righteous amongst the Nations.”

The death of Prince Philip, who was married to the Queen for over 70 years, has also prompted tributes from Jewish figures within the UK.

Buckingham Palace announced he “passed away peacefully” at Windsor Castle on Friday morning.