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- Written by Silvia Golan & Stephen Abrahams
On the eve of Tuesday, 8 September 2026, the Ambassador of the United States to the State of Israel, H.E. Mr. Mike and Mrs. Janet Huckabee hosted an festive and mamoth reception marking America's 250th Birthday. The reception was held at Jerusalem's Museum of Tolerance. The semiquincentennial celebration is when the United States adopted the Declaration of Independence on the 4th of July in 1776.
The Museum of Tolerance with its golden - hued facade and soaring glass walls span 180 000 metres over four floors and is located between modern western Jerusalem and the Old City.
In the museum's Tikun Olam Garden, there is a permanent exhibition honouring Jewish Nobel Laureates and great Teachers and Sages of Israel, dating to Yehuda Hanassi, all of whom contributed to mankind.
During the reception a number of guided tours of a powerful photographic exhibition entitled 62:29 were available. This exhibition documents the atrocities, heartbreak and heroism of the October 7th attacks in 2023, conveying a clear message that even in the deepest darkness there were points of light. These moments of courage and humanity are what sustain us, reminding us that our greatest strength lies in our unity.
A huge board displayed over 40 sponsors included Lockheed Martin, Watergen, Boeing, Amazon, Oracle, Google, Colgate, In Mobileye, Delta, Coca Cola, J.P. Morgan, Ritz Carlton, Microsoft, CBC Israel, Herzog, Motorola, Pfizer and Applied Materials, to name a few.
Close to 30 food stations including Ben and Jerry which served mostly traditional fare namely mini hamburgers, KFC chicken, lamb kebabs, smoked assado and brisket, Israeli shawarma, fish and chips, a salad bar of fattoush, baby tomato, Asian and ceasar salad and lastly root vegetable curry accompanied with coconut cream
Not forgetting that there was also a well stocked bar of exclusive Kentucky Bourbon and Herzog wine as well as a number of fridges of Watergen bottles which is atmospheric water generated to extract clean, mineral and enriched drinking water from the air.
The official ceremony took place in the Museum's amphitheatre where every seat had a cushion and a small U.S. flag. A large screen at the back of the stage where snaps and a film of previous U.S. 4th of July celebrations and of the United States beautiful landscape was shown.The Israel National Police Orchestra conducted by Maestro Vadim Musikov performed. Speeches were short and the evening's emphasis was on enjoyment.
H.E. Mr. Mike Hucabee opened the evening with a succinct speech expressing that the United States has so many reasons to thank G-d and thankfully we can do so in Jerusalem where the three Monastic faiths' forefathers i.e. Abrahams, Issac and Jacob lived. America's founding fathers based our national values on that of Judeo Chrsitian values. The United States's Declaration of Independence vests its power with the people.
Patricia Heaton, the Emcee,a philanthropist, activist and famous actor as well as a loyal and strong friend of Israel flew in for the occasion.
The Presentation of Colours by the Marine Security Guard Detachment of the United States Embassy in Israel accompanied by the Israeli National Police Band dumbfounded everyone present with their impressive performance.
Paul Kroeger, a U.S. diplomat and former opera singer sang the Star - Spangled Banner followed by Ishay Ribo's rendition of Israel's Hatikva.
The Emcee stated that despite Jerusalem being a complicated city, not only referring to the traffic, it is the intersection of three faiths.
A film was shown about the proposed and newly planned U.S. Embassy campus in Jerusalem.
A message by Israel's President, H.E. Isaach Herzog's brief speech included an anecdote about a Jew, Haim Solomon who came to the United States on the eve of independence tying his fate to the nascent state. The values of America embody and prioritizes faith in possibility and freedom, the latter carrying responsibility as the United States and Israel concomitantly stand against forces of tyranny. I value the Ambassador and his wife Janet's energies, their overwhelming message of positivity of which he speaks of almost daily.
Tri' Corley and his band, the Music City Connection from Tennessee flew in especially for this momentous occasion performing Neil Diamond's "They Coming To America", from the movie, the Jazz Singer. Ambassador Huckabee who started playing guitar at the age of 8 accompanied by Amir Ohana, Israel's Speaker of the Knesset stunned the guests by performing together with the band.
Israel's Prime Minister, H.E. Benjamin Netanyahu's short message on film started that America was not given its freedom but valiantly fought for it. Not the United States nor Israel bows to anyone as we fight for our power knowing that peace comes through strength. Together we stand and together we shall prevail.
Mr. Larry Mizel, the Museum of Tolerance's Chairman who for 25 years worked ceaselessly to realize the dream of actualizing a Museum of this magnitude in Jerusalem presented Ambassador Huckabee with the Torch of Abraham Award, the Museum's most prestigious accolade saying that he could not be a better friend to Israel as displayed in the war against Iran helping to develope the resilience of the Israeli people. His love of Jews and of Israel epitomizes his unbound loyalty. Through dialogue, inclusion and understanding he has brought people together embodying tolerance and mutual responsibility among people who differ.
Robert Davi, a well known American multi talented performer and jazz singer who as a young man worked with Frank Sinatra came especially for the evening's celebration. With his rich and sonorous voice he enthralled the audience performing three of his Mentor's songs which included "I Did It My Way", "Fly Me To The Moon" and a song written in 1946 against rabid Jew hatred in New York and antisemitism in the U.S.A.
An enormous birthday cake with the U.S.'s tricolours against a backdrop of 4 large sparklers was presented on a tier by 4 Marines. The birthday cake was sliced by Ambassador and Mrs. Huckabee.
The evening spectacular conclusion where Ambassador and Mrs Huckabee appeared on stage while the Knesset Speaker who represented the government of Israel, Mr. Amir Ohana played the guitar to "America the Beautiful" sung by Robert Davi and Paul Kroeger accompanied by the Israel National Police Orchestra conducted by Maestro Musikov.
Upon leaving, guests were presented with two gift packages of souvenirs.
We extends its heartfelt wishes to H.E. Mr. Mike and Mrs. Janet Huckabee and to all Embassy staff involved in preparing a memorable evening of entertainment, splendour, glamour and joy. May the United States and Israel's close relationship strengthen and remain steadfast in times of adversity.
G-d Bless and Long Live America.
Photos Silvia G. Golan
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- Written by Silvia Golan & David Goland
Embassy of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam's Independence Day Reception - Einav Cultural Center, Tel Aviv
On the evening of Wednesday, September 2nd 2026, the Ambassador of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam to the State of Israel, H.E. Dr. Nguyen Ky-Son and Madam, hosted the 81st Independence Day reception at Tel Aviv Municipality's Einav Center.
The hall was decorated with Vietnamese flags, and many Vietnamese attendants were dressed in exquisite traditional clothes. On the stage, a table with celebratory cake was prepared for the ceremonial cutting.
Traditional Vietnamese food ( delicious Chicken spring rolls, Vietnamese beef stew Stir fried moodles ) and fresh fruit platters, nuts and sweets were served and a bar offering wine and soft beverages.
The official ceremony started by the playing and singing of Israel and Viet Nam's national anthems.and enthusiastically sung
H.E. Dr. Nguyen Ky-Son, in his speech, welcomed the dignitaries in attendance. He described the arduous but triumphant path of the country from the liberation of the North in 1954 and the unification with the South in 1975.
The ambassador then continued to describe the immense progress Viet Nam made in diplomatic recognition by numerous countries; Viet Nam has emerged as a dynamic upper-middle-income country, deeply integrated into the global market, now a safe and friendly country.
He stated the goal of becoming a developed, high-income country by 2045. This will be achieved by the on-going streamlining the government, optimizing the business environment to increase efficiency. He indicated that the new growth model is driven by science and technology, innovation, and digital transformation.
The Ambassador stated that Israel and Viet Nam have established relations in 1993, and mentioned the historic meetings between President Ho Chi Minh and David Ben-Gurion in Paris in 1946, later inspiring a warm friendship between the two countries.
This friendship has transformed into a partnership that continues to deepen, broaden, and deliver tangible results. Two years since the FTA entered into force, bilateral trade rapidly approaches the four-billion-milestone. A growing wave of Israeli enterprises is exploring new investment and forging strategic partnerships in Viet Nam. Meanwhile, through party-to-party ties and people-to-people exchanges, the political and social foundations of the two countries bilateral relations are increasingly consolidated.
Economic ties are now greatly enhanced through high-level free trade agreements and various other agreements, facilitating commerce and technology exchange. Tourism and academic and cultural exchanges enhance the ties between the two countries, with Israel’s technological prowess, innovative spirit, and capacity to turn cutting-edge ideas into practical solutions. The Ambassador pointed out that with a population exceeding 102 million people; Viet Nam possesses advanced manufacturing capabilities, and an expansive trade network of 17 FTAs, and that the two combined could unlock new and strategic ventures.
The Ambassador concluded his speech with thanking the Israeli authorities for enabling these productive ties and warm friendship between Viet Nam and Israel, and then he wished all a happy new Jewish year with peace, prosperity, and happiness to shine upon the two peoples and across the respective regions.
After the speech, the ceremonial cutting of the cake took place, with the sound of the Shofar (ritual horn).
Distinguished guests included Ambassador Aviv Ezra Deputy Director General for Asia and the Pacific at the Israeli ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr.Yaron Meir former Ambassador of Israel to Viet Nam, Dr. Asher Salman Israeli Ministry of health- International Relations, Mr. Yoram Naor Hi-Tech Israel-Viet Nam promoter , Mr. Uri Dali Chairman of the Israel-Angola Chamber of Commerce, Gabriel Hayon, Chairman of The Diplomatic Institute, Ron Doron V.P. of Israel-Asia,Chamber of Commerce , Mrs. Yona Bartal, representative of the Peres Center for Peace and Innovation , Steve Linde Journalist for JNS, Mrs .Ariela Rosental International department of City of Ashdod, Miriam Berger Executive Director of the Israel - Latin America Chamber of Commerce,, Moshe Betito Alta & IFM Company, Ariel Goldshtein Senior Advisor to the Chief of Staff of the Prime Minister's Office , Mrs .Ayala Meitav Tel Aviv city International Relations, many Ambassadors and business leaders,
Diplomacy.co.il congratulates the Embassy , Government and People of Viet Nam on the National Day, and offers best wishes for the continued success and growth of the ties between Viet Nam and Israel.
Photos Silvia G. Golan
More pics at Facebook: Israel Diplo / Diplomacy Israel / Silvia G.Golan
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- Written by Silvia Golan
The 80th Independence Day of India was celebrated by the Embassy of India in Israel on August 15, 2026, with great gaiety and fervour, in the presence of members of the Indian Jewish community, the Indian diaspora and friends of India. 
For the first time, the National Song, Vande Mataram, was also sung during the occasion, marking 150 years since its composition.
The programme commenced with the flag-hoisting by H.E. Mr. J. P. Singh, Ambassador of India to Israel, followed by the singing of the National Anthem. Ambassador Singh also read the Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu’s Independence Day Address to the Nation.
In her address, President Murmu highlighted India’s growing stature on the global stage and its vision for a strong, developed and self-reliant nation. She emphasised India’s commitment to playing a leading role in the world, noting that “our country has grown in stature on the global stage” and reaffirming India’s belief in “a rules based international order.”
Highlighting India’s remarkable progress in science, technology and digital innovation, the President noted that “India has developed the world's largest and best digital infrastructure”, with more than half of the world’s real-time digital transactions taking place in India. She said that India and its people have “presented an example of digital revolution to the global community.”
The President also underlined the important role of India’s young generation in shaping the country’s technological future, noting that “a new phase of space exploration has been ushered in through the recent successful rocket launch by a young team with an average age of just 28 years.” She further highlighted the growing global recognition of Indian youth and their talent, dedication and leadership.
The guests were very enthusiastic about the traditional and super delicious catering by Chef Rina Pushkarna of the "Tandori" restaurant chain.
The celebrations also featured the felicitation of the winners of the ‘Bharat Ko Janiye Quiz’ and ‘India Through My Lens’ Photography Competition, with certificates and special prizes presented to the winners. Students of the Indian Cultural Centre added to the festivities with a stellar dance performance, showcasing the vibrant colours and rich cultural heritage of India.
The Embassy of India in Israel wishes all Indians in Israel and across the world a very Happy 80th Independence Day!
Diplomacy.co.il and www.diariojudio.com wish the Ambassador, the Embassy staff, our friend Ms. Rina Pushkarna and all Indians in Israel and around the world a happy 80th Independence Day.
Photos Silvia G. Golan
More pics at Facebook: Israel Diplo / Diplomacy Israel / Silvia G.Golan & Instagram SilviaGolan
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More than 50 Ambassadors and Senior Diplomatic Representatives Attended Herzliya Municipality New Year Reception
More than 50 Ambassadors and Senior Diplomatic Representatives Attended Herzliya Municipality New Year Reception
Herzliya Mayor, Yariv Fisher, hosted a New Year reception this week at HaMesila in Herzliya, attended by more than 50 ambassadors and senior diplomatic representatives, representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and other distinguished guests.
Also attending the event were senior officials from Reichman University, including the university’s founder, Prof. Uriel Reichman, University CEO Ayelet Ben-Ezer Gelbard, senior representatives of the Herzliya Foundation, and senior municipal officials.
During the event, the Foreign Relations and Strategic Partnerships Unit, led by the Strategy Division of the Herzliya Municipality, was presented. The unit is responsible for promoting and developing international cooperation.
The unit represents a professional and proactive approach to engaging with the city’s diplomatic community, fostering ongoing relations, initiatives, connections, and collaborations with embassies and foreign missions. Its renewed establishment is aimed at creating value for both the city and the State of Israel through international partnerships in the fields of culture, academia, technology, tourism, sports, economics, and society.
Herzliya Mayor Yariv Fisher said at the event:
«“The establishment of the Foreign Relations and Strategic Partnerships Unit strengthens Herzliya’s position as a global city, connecting the municipality, the international community, a leading university, the business sector, culture, tourism, and innovation. Herzliya serves as a ‘Gateway to the World’ and as a model for a global Israeli city that creates connections between people, communities, and institutions, while strengthening Israel’s ties with the international arena.
At the same time, Herzliya is a city that drives innovation and growth, and can share its extensive knowledge and experience with other cities around the world based on the principles of reciprocity, peer learning, and joint projects addressing shared pressing challenges.
At such a challenging time for the State of Israel and for the Jewish people around the world, receiving a diplomatic embrace from more than 50 countries is something that cannot be taken for granted.”»
Among the ambassadors attending the event were representatives of the European Union, Finland, Bahai , Greece, Costa Rica, Chipre, Japan, China, Thailand, Vietnam, South Korea, the Republic of the Congo, Tanzania, Russia, Paraguay, Mexico, and Ukraine.
Photo credit Herzliya Municipality Spokesperson’s Office.
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- Written by Silvia Golan & Lior Sattarov
A distinguished diplomatic gathering hosted by the Embassy of Kazakhstan in Israel brought together diplomats, scholars, and journalists to review the nation’s historic constitutional reform adopted via nationwide referendum on March 15, 2026 and celebrate the rapid expansion of Kazakhstan-Israel relations.
His Excellency the Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Mr. Daulet Yemberdiyev, presented the foundational changes aimed at modernizing public administration and strengthening democratic accountability. Central to this overhaul is the transition to the unicameral Kurultai, a streamlined 145 member single chamber parliament replacing the previous two-chamber system. With parliamentary elections scheduled for August 23, 2026, the constitutional framework introduces key new institutions, including a Vice President to ensure executive continuity, and the People’s Council (Halyq Qengesi)-a consultative body representing civil society with direct legislative initiative. Together, these reforms establish a rebalanced system of checks and balances by enhancing parliamentary oversight while maintaining an effective presidential governance model.
Ambassador Yemberdiyev reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s secular, multi-vector foreign policy and its positive engagement with the Abraham Accords framework. Highlighting unprecedented momentum in bilateral ties, the Ambassador noted recent high-level Israeli delegations to Kazakhstan including Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana, Ministers David Amsalem and Gideon Sa'ar, and President Isaac Herzog. A major milestone announced at the briefing is the finalization of a mutual 90-day visa-free regime, alongside ongoing progress on double taxation avoidance and direct flight routes.
The panel discussion provided rich academic, historical, and geopolitical insights into the partnership. Prof. Eduard Yakubov, President of the Holon Institute of Technology (HIT), underscored Kazakhstan’s strategic position as a bridge between East and West, paying moving tribute to the historical shelter Central Asian nations provided to hundreds of thousands of Jewish refugees during World War II who later helped build Israel. Emphasizing higher tech education as the core engine of national growth for Kazakhstan's young demographic, Prof. Yakubov detailed HIT's active collaboration with ten Kazakhstani universities and announced an upcoming delegation in October to establish a joint Technological Innovation Center focusing on AI, cybersecurity, digital health, and student exchange programs.
Complementing these academic perspectives, Mordechai Kimyogarov, Representative for Foreign Relations and International Cooperation of the World Congress of Bukharian Jews (honored within the community as its "Minister of Foreign Relations and Friendship of Peoples"), delivered a moving tribute to the historic and modern alliance between the Jewish people and Kazakhstan. Drawing on a 2,600 year history of peaceful coexistence in Central Asia dating back to the destruction of the First Temple, Kimyogarov highlighted the shared traditions, cultural bonds, and deep brotherhood between the two nations. He paid emotional homage to the Kazakh people's heroism during World War II both on the battlefronts and through their extraordinary humanitarianism in sheltering over one million refugees, including 200,000 European Jews, an act of generosity he stressed global Jewry must never forget. Turning to contemporary relations, Kimyogarov lauded Kazakhstan’s global leadership in interfaith dialogue-recalling his privilege of moderating a major interfaith congress in Jerusalem-as well as the flourishing bilateral cooperation spanning advanced medical training, defense technology, and trade. He praised Kazakhstan’s ongoing constitutional modernization and vibrant, educated youth, expressing full confidence in the nation's bright future under Ambassador Daulet Yemberdiyev's dedicated diplomatic leadership.
Adding a strategic analytical dimension to the panel, renowned political analyst and Central Asia expert Arkady Y. Dubnov offered a profound perspective based on 35 years of observing the post-Soviet landscape - an era now spanning half the lifetime of the USSR. Describing Kazakhstan as an extraordinary multi-ethnic state, Dubnov highlighted how Astana’s political trajectory actively challenges conventional, cynical views of diplomacy by reintroducing a rare moral dimension, decency, and ethical responsibility into international relations. Fully embodying its role as a constructive "middle power," Kazakhstan's foreign policy - exemplified by its open-minded engagement with initiatives like the Abraham Accords - demonstrates that principled, process-driven statecraft can serve as a beacon of optimism and a hub for a "new morality" in global politics.
Special appreciation is extended to Ambassador H.E. Mr. Daulet Yemberdiyev, Counsellor Assen Kashkenov, and the Embassy staff for their exceptional organization and gracious hosting of this diplomatic briefing.
Photos: Silvia G. Golan
More pictures available on Facebook (Israel Diplo / Diplomacy Israel / Silvia G. Golan) & Instagram (@SilviaGolan)
Lior Sattarov is a member of Debate for Peace. https://debateforpeace.org/
