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Hundreds of Christians to hold October 7 Remembrance Ceremony with Gaza Border Communities as Israel awaits news of end of two-year conflict
Feast of Tabernacles begins with visits to impacted kibbutzim, massacre sites . ICEJ funding seven major rebuilding projects in devastated villages of Western Negev
The annual Christian celebration of the Feast of Tabernacles, sponsored by the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem, will kick off on Monday (6 October) with a special Remembrance Ceremony in the Gaza border area with local community leaders to honor the more than 1,500 Israelis killed or abducted on October 7 exactly two years ago. The solidarity visit by over 600 Christians from more than 50 countries will take place as Israel awaits news that a ceasefire has finally been reached to end the Gaza conflict and release all the hostages in coming days.
The solidarity and remembrance gathering will held Monday morning on the Sapir College campus, and will feature local survivors of the Hamas massacres giving their personal accounts of the tragic events on Simchat Torah in 2023. Speakers will include Doron Libshtein, brother of Ofir Libshtein, the late mayor of Sha’ar HaNegev Regional Council who was killed that morning defending his home village of Kfar Aza, and former MK Shai Hermesh, who survived the onslaught of terrorists at Kfar Aza.
The hundreds of Chrisitan supporters of Israel also will visit key sites connected to the Hamas atrocities, including the Nova music festival site and the ‘car graveyard’ near Tkuma.
In addition, the Christian delegations will see and hear how the devastated Israeli communities of the western Negev are slowly returning and rebuilding their lives after the October 7 terrorist invasion.
To help these battered communities recover, the Christian Embassy is currently funding seven major rebuilding projects in the Gaza border area, at a cumulative cost of over $6.8 million. These projects include:
* Completely rebuilding the destroyed youth activity center in Kibbutz Be’eri;
* Turning a retirement home in Be’eri into a trauma care and activity center for seniors;
* Repairing a kindergarten to serve as a childrens’ trauma center in Kfar Aza;
* Constructing an innovative music therapy center in Kfar Aza;
* Building a greenhouse classroom and learning center at a new agro-tech school in Sde Nitzan;
* Restoring and expanding an animal therapy petting zoo and horse ranch in Kibbutz Urim; and
* Building five large bomb shelters at new trauma centers in the Sha’ar HaNegev and Sdot Negev regions.
“We look forward to our Feast pilgrims being able to meet these special Israelis who have such amazing courage and resilience in living along the Gaza border, and especially at a time when these two very tough years of war might be ending,” said ICEJ President Dr Jürgen Bühler. “The Christian Embassy has committed to a series of major rebuilding projects to help our friends in the western Negev restore key facilities to enhance their communal life, with special emphasis on assisting youth and the elderly, as well as providing trauma care for all.”
The ICEJ’s Feast of Tabernacles will then move up to Jerusalem for four more days of events from Tuesday through Friday of this week. On Wednesday evening, the ICEJ will host a colorful solidarity event with numerous Israeli guests which will feature addresses by President Isaac Herzog, US Ambassador Mike Huckabee, and Fijian Deputy Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka, plus a special awards ceremony with Israeli Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel to honor the seven nations that have opened embassies in Jerusalem (United States, Guatemala, Paraguay, Honduras, Kosovo, Papua New Guinea and Fiji). In a first, official representatives from all seven nations will be present on one stage for the occasion.
Other Feast highlights will include the popular Jerusalem March, which will take place in Sacher Park on Thursday afternoon, starting at 1:30 PM.
More than 1,500 Christians from over 70 nations have arrived in Israel to participate in the biblical festival of Sukkot, which has been staged by the Christian Embassy every year since 1980.
The ICEJ’s Feast 2025 constitutes the largest solidarity mission to Israel since the war began two years ago, and will feature large delegations from Western countries that have been increasingly critical of Israel, including Norway, France, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom and Ireland.
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Fiji’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sitiveni Rabuka at MFA @ Silvia G Golan
Minister of Foreign Affairs Gideon Sa’ar delivered remarks on 17th September at the reception held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in honor of the opening of Fiji’s Embassy in Jerusalem.
The reception followed a meeting between Minister of Foreign Affairs Gideon Sa’ar and Fiji’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, together with Fiji’s Minister of Defense Pio Tikoduadua and Minister of Information Tabuya Lynda. Both Minister Sa’ar and Prime Minister Rabuka delivered remarks at the event.
The opening of the embassy follows the understandings reached during Minister Sa’ar’s meeting with Prime Minister Rabuka in February on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Gideon Sa’ar delivered remarks on 17th September at the reception held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in honor of the opening of Fiji’s Embassy in Jerusalem. @ Silvia G Golan
From Minister Sa’ar’s remarks:
“Thank you, Prime Minister, for your bold, moral and historic decision to open an embassy in Jerusalem, our ancient and eternal capital.
Jerusalem, is the beating heart of the Jewish people.
It is not just a city.
Jerusalem is a symbol.
It represents the fulfillment of more than a three-thousand-year-old dream.
The archeological findings in the City of David show beyond any doubt – the Jewish people are indigenous to this ancient land.
We were here a long, long time ago. Three thousand years ago in the time of King David – and before that.
And we are here now, to stay, forever.
The connection between Israel and Fiji is deep.
It is based on shared biblical values:
Ancient traditions of faith and love for Jerusalem.
We have an alliance of believers between Jews and Christians – based on deep faith and biblical roots.
We are opening a new, historic chapter in our relations.
Prime Minister – with what you did today – you laid a stone in the ancient walls of Jerusalem. In the living history of this city.
We greatly appreciate it.
I am sure that our friendship will continue to grow even stronger.
It will serve as an example and inspiration for others.”
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President Herzog greeting Prime Minister Rabuka upon his arrival at the President’s Residence© GPO/Amos Ben Gershom
President Herzog meets with Prime Minister Rabuka of Fiji
President Herzog welcomed Prime Minister Rabuka and thanked him you on behalf of the nation of Israel for opening the Fijian Embassy in Jerusalem.
(Communicated by the President's Spokesperson)
President Isaac Herzog today (Thursday, 18 September 2025), at the President’s Residence, met with the Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka of Fiji who was visiting Jerusalem for the opening of his nation’s embassy, along with several senior ministers in his government.
During the meeting, the President spoke of the breaking news of the attack on Israelis at the Allenby Crossing.
President Herzog welcomed the Prime Minister and said: “I want to thank you on behalf of the nation of Israel for opening the Embassy in Jerusalem yesterday, it's a big step. Bless you.”
He said, “This is not an easy day. We have just heard that Israeli citizens were shot at the bridge with Jordan because terrorists want to derail our relations with Jordan. We send our heartfelt condolences to the families, and we hope things will be better, and especially we want to see the hostages back.”
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PM Netanyahu meets with Fijian Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Sitiveni Rabuka
During the meeting, Prime Minister Netanyahu thanked his Fijian counterpart for his steadfast support and stand alongside the State of Israel, and discussed regional diplomatic and security issues with him.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, today (Wednesday, 17 September 2025), at the Prime Minister's Office in Jerusalem, hosted Fijian Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Sitiveni Rabuka.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Netanyahu thanked his Fijian counterpart for his steadfast support and stand alongside the State of Israel, and discussed regional diplomatic and security issues with him.
Prime Minister Netanyahu and his wife were invited by Fijian Prime Minister Rabuka to visit Fiji.
Following the meeting, the two leaders will go to the festive opening of the Fijian Embassy in Jerusalem our capital.
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Jerusalem. September 19th 2025 PrimeMinister of Fiji The Honorable Sitiveni Rabuka received The Friends of Zion Award
from left: Nir Kimhi, director of FOZ, Prime Minister of the Republic of Fiji, the Honorable Sitiveni Rabuka
H.E Filipo Tarakinikini, the Republic of Fiji Ambassador to Israel, Daniel Voiczeck GM FOZ.
Photo credit David saad
PrimeMinister of Fiji The Honorable Sitiveni Rabuka: " I am honored and excited to receive the Friends of Zion Award, One of the Most Prestigious Awards ".
PrimeMinister of Fiji The Honorable Sitiveni Rabuka received The Friends of Zion Award. The evening at the Friends of Zion Heritage Center in Jerusalem was attended by 300 guests, including ambassadors, diplomats, businessmen and other VIP.
The Friends of Zion Heritage Center in Jerusalem hosted the event in honor of the PrimeMinister. The PrimeMinister received the Friends of Zion Award for his steadfast support of Israel these days and in appreciation for opening the Embassy in Jerusalem.
The Friends of Zion Award was established by the late Shimon Peres, Israel's 9th President and former International Chairman of FOZ. It has been given to over 25 world leaders, including former US President George Bush, former US President Donald Trump, and former Vice President Mike Pence.
PrimeMinister of Fiji The Honorable Sitiveni Rabuka said: "I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Friends of Zion and Dr. Mike Evans for the meaningful recognition bestowed upon me. This honor is a reflection of the strong ties of friendship between Fiji and Israel, and it reaffirms our shared commitment to values such as freedom, peace, and cooperation. I am deeply thankful for this gesture, which inspires us to continue working toward a future of mutual respect and solidarity between our nations”.
Dr. Mike Evans, Founder of FOZ stated: “PrimeMinister of Fiji The Honorable Sitiveni Rabuka deserves recognition from Friends of Zion for his firm and determined support for Israel at crucial moments and for opening the Embassy in Jerusalem. The PM of Fiji Sitiveni Rabuka has publicly expressed his support for Israel's right to defend itself, condemning the October 7th attacks and expressing his commitment and support for Israel's security and right to defense. This courageous and consistent stance reflects a deep commitment to the values that Friends of Zion promotes and positions. PM Rabuka is a true friend of the people of Israel”.
The Friends of Zion Heritage Center was established in 2015, in the center of Israel’s capital Jerusalem, by founder Dr. Mike Evans, a number one best-selling author, and a Nobel Peace Prize nominee for a lifetime of combating antisemitism.
The Friends of Zion Heritage center is a Zionist platform dedicated to the fight against anti-Semitism and BDS and concerns itself with bolstering awareness for the historical support of the Christian friends of Israel. Their advanced Media Center holds dozens of events, activities, and press conferences in line with the FOZ museum's vision
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On the evening of Tuesday, 16 September 2025 the Ambassador of the Socialist Republic of VietNam to the State of Israel, H.E. Mr. Ly Duc Trung and Mrs.Trang Pham, hosted an independence day reception at Tel Aviv Municipality's Cultural Centre, the Einav Centre.
A short film was screened about the VietNamese battle against France which ended the conflict with a decisive Viet Minh victory at the battle of Dien Bien Phu in 1954 followed by the Geneva Accords and France's withdrawal finally leading to independence.
The hall was decorated with VietNamese flags and posters of VietNam's tourist attractions.
Traditional VietNamese food prepared by Mrs.Trang Pham and fresh fruit platters was served and a bar offering wine and nonalcoholic beverages.
After the reception guests were invited to the auditorium where the official ceremony took place.
The national anthems of VietNam and Israel were sung lead by a pianist.
H.E. Mr. Ly Duc Trung started his speech highlighting VietNam's transformation from French colonial rule to a modern, dynamic economy. Since the declaration of independence on the 2nd of September 1945 by President Ho Chi Minh, VietNam has soared and achieved significant progress in its economic growth, social development and international integration. Milestones include a 60 fold GDP increase since the Doi Moi reforms were implemented in 1986, a rising life expectancy, poverty reduction and recognition as being one of the most fifty innovative countries.
The Ambassador emphasised VietNam's expanding global presence, maintaining diplomatic relations with 194 countries, engaging in 20 free trade agreements, fostering strategic partnerships with 38 nations including the United Nations Security Council's five permanent member states. Domestic reforms focusing on governance, infrastructure and education which aim towards a high income developed nation by 2045 which will be Viet Nam's 100th year of independence.
Thirty two years of bilateral relations with Israel in the fields of politics, trade, technology and agriculture have perpetuated the recently implemented VietNam - Israel Free Trade agreement. Forthcoming Tel Aviv - Hanoi direct flights will fortify economic ties.
In conclusion the Ambassador wished everyone a happy New Year and blessings for a peaceful, united and hopeful year.
Distinguished guests included former Prime Minister Ehud Barak, Mr. Yossi Fuchs, Israel's Cabinet Secretary, Mr. Mickey Levy, former Speaker of the Knesset, the Israeli Foreign Ministry's Director General and Deputy Director General, Aviv Ezra Deputy Director General for Asia and the Pacific at the Israeli ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Arie Wissmann, CEO of Shomrat Hazorea, Mr. Gabriel Hayon, Chairman of the Diplomatic Institute, Prof, Benjamin Peretz, Professor Emeritus of Pediatric Dentistry at the University of Tel Aviv and Mrs Anat Sar Israel fashion designer proprietor of Kiki Dress to Dress.
Diplomacy.co.il congratulates H.E. Mr. Ly Duc Trung and Mrs. Trang Pham on VietNam's 80th anniversary of independence and for a memorable evening of VietNamese hospitality.
Photos Silvia G. Golan
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On Tuesday evening, the 16th of September 2025, on the occasion of the 65th anniversary of Cypriot independence, the Ambassador of Cyprus to the State of Israel, H.E. Mr. Kornelios S. Korneliou hosted a reception at the Hilton, Tel Aviv.
Drawing from our lessons in history, we need to stand firm against any forms of Anti Semitsim that represent a threat to our societies and to democracy. Cyprus - Israel relations have intensified and flourished and today our bilateral relations include emergency response, energy, defence, healthcare, trade, investments, technology, innovation and tourism. A weekly 186 flights per week at the peak of the summer season including a "Haifa route" is yet another testament to the close ties between our peoples. In Cyprus there is a large and growing Israeli community enriching our society. In the wake of the 7th of October 2023, our partnership with Israel has become more important for regional stability and security. From the tragic outset following that horrendous day, Cyprus extends its solidarity to Israel, condemning Hamas, supporting the unconditional release of all hostages and recognizing Israel's right to self defence in line with international law. Through the creation of a maritime corridor for the transfer of humanitarian aid to Gaza, Cyprus has addressed and contributed to efforts in alleviating the dire situation for civilians in Gaza. Cyprus also served as a hub for the return of Israelis citizens and also for the evacuation of foreign citizens. The Ambassador concluded his address by extending his appreciation and thanks to Cyprus's Honorary Consul in Israel, Mr. Leon Koffer and to all sponsors of the evening's event.
In the lobby preceding the banquet hall, the Embassy of Cyprus had a photographic exhibition of the Cypriot nation's most tragic episode namely the Turkish invasion of Cyprus which began on the 20th of July 1974 and progressed in two phases over the following month leading to the Turkish capture and occupation of the northern part on the island.
A number of large screens in the banquet hall showed a picturesque movie about Cyprus's geograghy, breathtaking tourist sites and the many opportunities for investors in the island.
A screen of an address given by the President of Israel, H. E. Mr. Isaac Herzog was shown.
The Ambassador of Cyprus to the State of Israel, H.E. Mr. Kornelios Korneliou, started his address by expressing his gratitude and welcoming everyone present. He also acknowledged the President of Israel's warm words that highlighted the strong ties and friendship between Israel and Cyprus. Today we remember the struggles of the Cypriot people on the road to independence. Sadly, this anniversary celebrating 65 years of Cypriot independence coincides with the continuous Turkish occupation of one third of the island nation's landmass since 1974. Cyprus is a vibrant democracy with a thriving economy and a well respected member of the European Union. The relationship between our peoples are rooted in deep historical ties, more than 53 000 Jewish refugees seeking a new beginning in the Holy Land fled to Cyprus serving as a transit point of their journey.
Drawing from our lessons in history, we need to stand firm against any forms of Anti Semitsim that represent a threat to our societies and to democracy. Cyprus - Israel relations have intensified and flourished and today our bilateral relations include emergency response, energy, defence, healthcare, trade, investments, technology, innovation and tourism. A weekly 186 flights per week at the peak of the summer season including a "Haifa route" is yet another testament to the close ties between our peoples. In Cyprus there is a large and growing Israeli community enriching our society. In the wake of the 7th of October 2023, our partnership with Israel has become more important for regional stability and security. From the tragic outset following that horrendous day, Cyprus extends its solidarity to Israel, condemning Hamas, supporting the unconditional release of all hostages and recognizing Israel's right to self defence in line with international law. Through the creation of a maritime corridor for the transfer of humanitarian aid to Gaza, Cyprus has addressed and contributed to efforts in alleviating the dire situation for civilians in Gaza. Cyprus also served as a hub for the return of Israelis citizens and also for the evacuation of foreign citizens. The Ambassador concluded his address by extending his appreciation and thanks to Cyprus's Honorary Consul in Israel, Mr. Leon Koffer and to all sponsors of the evening's event.
The Cypriot Minister of Energy, Commerce and Industry, H.E. Mr. George Papanastasiou who arrived especially for the event and was accompanied by a delegation from his Ministry spoke briefly saying that it was his honour to be present at the event honouring Cyprus's 65th anniversary of independence. This day reminds us of the struggle and sacrifice of the Cypriot people - not only to achieve independence but in the face of overwhelming odds and continuing challenges, such as Turkey's illegal invasion and ongoing occupation of a third of our country. Here in Tel Aviv among many friends we also celebrate the deep bond between our countries. Our people are united by history and the strategic partnership we continue to forge, strengthened by trust and guided by shared values vital to ensuring stability and prosperity in our region. He concluded by making a toast to the friendship between Cyprus and Israel.
Representing the State of Israel, H.E. Mr. David Amsalem, Minister of Regional Cooperation started his speech stating that this is not only an official event but an opportunity to remind ourselves how close Israel and Cyprus are. The bridges between us in the areas of security, economy, tourism and culture are long and deep. Our relationship is based upon mutual trust and by a sense of true partnership. In the field of energy, "Great Sea Interconnector" in which Cyprus, Greece and Israel are partners is an excellent example of our ability to think big. In the field of Tourism, over 400 000 Israelis visit Cyprus annually, drawn by its beautiful beaches and warm hospitality. Mutual visits by ministers, businesspeople and investors adds another dimension of partnership. In the field of emergency aid, last summer proved once again the closeness between us, where Israel sent firefighting planes to help fight the fire on the Troodos mountains. The trilateral cooperation between Israel, Greece and Cyprus and within the framework of the "3 + 1 mechanism" including the U.S.A., is testament to our shared regional strength. Green energy, sustainability technology and artificial intelligence are areas where we can lead together. In a few weeks Israel will commemorate the second anniversary of the 7th of October. Cyprus stood by us in its unequivocal condemnation of Hamas and in calling for the unconditional release of the hostages. Cyprus happens to be one of Israel's closest partners and together we can ensure a future of peace, stability and prosperity. He concluded his address by stating that Israel looks forward to
continuing and deepening the warm friendship and partnership that is concomitant between the two countries.
Among the many dignitaries present were Ambassadors, diplomats, heads of NGOs, Military Attaches, People conducting business in or with Cyprus, Ambassador Gil Haskel, Chief of State Protocol, H.E. Mr. Eden Bar Tal, Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ms.Louisa Varaclas Director for Israel at Cyprus Tourism Organisation, Mr. Nathan Allalouf, Honorary Consul of Costa Rica in Israel and President of Allalouf Shipping, Mr. Uri Sirkis, CEO of Israir Airlines, Mr. Eyal Kashdan, CEO of Flying Carpet, Mr. Boaz Baxman, Manager of Ophir Tours, Ms. Ayala Meitav, Senior Project Manager of International Relations for Tel Aviv's Municipality, Maj Gen (Ret) Amos Gilead, Executive Director of the Institute for Policy and Strategy and Chairman of the annual Herzliya Conference Series at Reichman University, Ms. Anat Kiki of Kiki Fashion and last but not least Mr. Amit Cotler, a presenter and journalist of Israel state television channel.
www.diplomacy.co.il extends its congratulations to the Ambassador of Cyprus to Israel on the auspicious occasion of his country's 65th anniversary of independence and success in future bilateral relations between the Republic of Cyprus and the State of Israel
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Photo :President Herzog then welcomed new Ambassador of the European Union, Mr. Michael Anthony Mann
_President Isaac Herzog receives new Ambassadors from Estonia, Latvia, the European Union, South Sudan, Zambia, and New Zealand_
President Isaac Herzog today, Tuesday, received the diplomatic credentials of the new Ambassadors to Israel from Estonia, Latvia, the European Union, South Sudan, Zambia, and New Zealand, in a series of formal ceremonies at the President’s Residence in Jerusalem.
Welcoming Ambassador of the European Union, Mr. Michael Anthony Mann, President Herzog stressed the importance of deepening relations between Israel and the European Union, while warning against steps that could cause lasting damage.
President Herzog said:
“Ambassador, you are arriving at a turbulent time. We are extremely concerned about the onslaught of initiatives and statements, including those by senior European leaders such as President von der Leyen, which we believe misinterpret what Israel is doing, defending Europe. I hope Europe will be smart enough not to take steps that could be irreparable.”
The President notes, “I am a strong supporter and believe in the relations between Israel and Europe. Some in Israel see Europe as a lost cause, but I do not agree. I trust in your wisdom and your capabilities to help us overcome the current clashes and to move forward.”
He stressed, “Of course, everything depends on the situation on the ground: on our efforts to bring the hostages home, and on ending this war. We are eager to see it end, but it must end in a way that secures the return of our hostages and changes the reality on the ground so that Israelis and Palestinians can live side by side in peace, with Israel integrated fully into the region.”
On the issue of humanitarian aid in Gaza, the President said, “In my recent meetings in Britain, I emphasized that there is meticulous data from COGAT regarding humanitarian flows into Gaza. Too often, this data is ignored in favor of misleading or fabricated reports. We are open to any fact-finding mission, and I have already raised this with President von der Leyen. I repeat the invitation now: come, sit down with COGAT, examine the figures—on calories, food shipments, UN distribution routes, and more. We are adamant that there is no famine in Gaza. I urge Europe to look at the facts in a serious way, and not rely only on reports that misrepresent the reality.”
The President reiterated in each of his meetings today the supreme importance of securing the release of the hostages held in Gaza, emphasizing that their immediate and unconditional return is the key to ending the war and building a path towards peace.
Photo :President Herzog then welcomed new Ambassador of Estonia, Mr. Andres Vosman
Photo :President Herzog then welcomed new Ambassador of Latvia, Mr. Gints Serafinovics
Photo :President Herzog then welcomed new Ambassador of South Sudan, Mr. Mou Mou Ring
Photo :President Herzog then welcomed new Ambassador of Zambia, Mr. Wesley Mahuba Hazemba
Photo :President Herzog then welcomed new Ambassador of New Zealand, Mr. Greg Lewis.
Over the course of the ceremonies, President Herzog received the credentials of Ambassador of Estonia, Mr. Andres Vosman, and Ambassador of Latvia, Mr. Gints Serafinovics, Ambassador of South Sudan, Mr. Mou Mou Ring, Ambassador of Zambia, Mr. Wesley Mahuba Hazemba, and Ambassador of New Zealand, Mr. Greg Lewis.
Photos Kobi Gideon / GPO
