More Quotes
“Because of the situation in Syria and the region, I think Jordan has become much more important for us … We have to improve connections with Saudi Arabia and other moderate Arab states, and then we need to make it easier for Jordanian tourists to come here.” (Israel’s Deputy Regional Coordination Minister Ayub Kara after touring the Dead Sea region, 9/08/2015)
“Along with Israelis on all sides of the political spectrum, I am deeply concerned about the recent nuclear deal signed with Iran. The current Iranian regime acts with a dangerous combination of aggressiveness, fundamentalism, and state sponsored terrorism, threatening – even without nuclear weapons – freedom and democracy in this region and around the world. We fear that this agreement is a first step in the legitimization of Iran’s policies and strategies, and only acts to further destabilize a chaotic region.”
“However, this deal alone does not leave Israel defenseless. As a strong, democratic country in the region, Israel can and will do all that is necessary to defend itself. In this crucial time, we know that Israel does not stand alone. Our allies – and specifically the US – are a strategic cornerstone for us. The US–Israel relationship has known ups and downs. We must not be alarmed by disagreements when they arise. Whatever Congress decides, it will be your decision as representatives of the American people. We, as your allies and partners, must make sure that whatever the result of this vote, our strategic alliance stands and grows even stronger.” (Israeli President Reuven Rivlin speaking to a Republican Party delegation, 11/08/2015)
“Rabbi Gopstein’s views have no place within the Jewish tradition or in a democratic society … No Jew with even a passing acquaintance with Jewish history should ever call for the destruction of houses of worship, be they Christian, Muslim or Jewish. He should apologize for these appalling statements.”
“His inflammatory words and actions are the dictionary definition of a ‘hillul hashem,’ a desecration of God’s name … In the current climate, rather than seek to build bridges of peace and understanding, Rabbi Gopstein continues to incite not only against Christians and Muslims, but against all, including Jews, who do not share his radical and extremist views.” (A statement by Anti-Defemation League National Director Jonathan A. Greenblatt, 10/08/2015)
“Every Israeli patriot would be worried about this agreement and I have major criticism of aspects of it … First of all, unleashing the hungry Iranian tiger into the region … Is a risk, which may destabilize the region and change its balance of power between moderate nations and extreme nations. In addition, the agreement gives legitimization for Iran to become a nuclear threshold state in 10-15 years … It’s enough to see the positive reactions of President [Bashar] Assad of Syria and [Hassan] Nasrallah, leader of Hezbollah, to understand what I’m talking about.” (Israeli opposition and Zionist Union leader Isaac Herzog in a meeting with Democratic Party members of Congress, 09/08/2015)
“A big part of my job over the next four years will be to develop the ties that we have in trade, investment, and in science and technology, which are of great benefit to both countries, and also is the best answer we have to those who call for boycotts of Israel.”
“As you say it is also vitally important that we work together against extremism in the region. David Cameron has spoken out very strongly on this, and the United Kingdom and Israel must be partners in this struggle against extremism. I think also as you say, there is a great need for progress toward peace in the region – that need is very urgent, and we will do whatever is needed to support the difficult decisions required to achieve peace. I would also like to see more cultural collaboration between the UK and Israel and I hope to be able to give that a higher profile. Indeed, we are marking 400 years since the death of Shakespeare next year, and we look forward to marking that in Israel.” (British Ambassador to Israel David Quarrey presenting his credentials to Israeli President Reuven Rivlin, 06/08/2015)
“Along with Israelis on all sides of the political spectrum; I am deeply concerned about the recent nuclear deal signed with Iran. The current Iranian regime, acts with a dangerous combination of aggressiveness, fundamentalism, and state sponsored terrorism, threatening – even without nuclear weapons – freedom and democracy in this region and around the world. We fear that this agreement is a first step in the legitimization of Iran’s policies and strategies, and only acts to further destabilize a chaotic region.” (Israeli President Reuven Rivlin speaking at a meeting with Democratic Party legislators, 05/08/2015)