JERUSALEM (JTA) — President Donald Trump congratulated Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on his 70th birthday in a letter on official White House stationary.
The president hand wrote in black marker on the letter dated Oct. 21, Netanyahu’s birthday, “You are great!”
Netanyahu posted a photo of the letter on Twitter, writing both in Hebrew and English: “Thank you to my friend President Trump for your warm words on my birthday. Our alliance and friendship have never been stronger.”
“There has never been a more productive time in the Israeli-American partnership, and I know there are many more victories to come,” Trump wrote in the letter. “Thank you for your strong leadership and loyal friendship. You are one of my closest allies and I look forward to the continued success we will have working together.”
The letter was sent the same day that Netanyahu announced he was unable to form a government coalition and returned the mandate to form a government to President Reuven Rivlin, who said he would pass it on to Blue and White head Benny Gantz. It will be the first time in more than a decade that someone other than Netanyahu will attempt to form a government.
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
