President Isaac Herzog today, Monday, met with United Kingdom Foreign Secretary David Lammy at the President’s Residence in Jerusalem. This marks Lammy’s first visit to the region since taking office.
After their meeting, Foreign Secretary Lammy joined President Herzog in a conversation with the family of Tamir Adar from Kibbutz Oz, who was murdered by Hamas and whose body remains held by the terrorists in Gaza.
President Herzog welcomed Lammy and congratulated him on his appointment: “Welcome to Israel, Foreign Secretary Lammy. I greatly appreciate that one of your first trips is to this region and to Israel. Your landslide victory enables the UK to advance dramatically and engage with new frontiers.”
He continued, “We are at war with an evil empire that seeks to destabilize the world, rushes towards nuclear capabilities, disrupts international trade, and surrounds Israel with its proxies. This is a just war for us. We seek peace and must find it with our neighbors. I know Britain sees this as crucial, and I hope you have a productive visit.”
Herzog emphasized, “The issue of our hostages is paramount. They are in dire conditions and danger. We are working tirelessly to secure their release. A hostage deal is essential for resolving the conflict. I appreciate your government’s efforts on this matter.”
Foreign Secretary Lammy thanked President Herzog for his warm welcome and said, “It’s good to be back in Israel, now as Foreign Secretary. I am acutely aware of the trauma from October 7th and the anguish of the hostage families. I met with UK hostage families who shared their fears. I hope for a hostage deal soon, using all diplomatic efforts, particularly with Secretary of State Blinken and the G7 nations. I also hope for a ceasefire to alleviate the suffering and loss of life in Gaza. The UK aims to bring peace and stability to this complex region. Thank you.”
At the meeting’s conclusion, First Lady Michal Herzog discussed with Lammy the severe sexual violence perpetrated by Hamas since October 7 and stressed the importance of securing the immediate release of all hostages.–News Desk