Then-presidential candidate Donald Trump (L) with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu in New York in September. (Kobi Gideon/Flash90) (Kobi Gideon/Flash90)
Trump and Netanyahu

Trump delivered a message to Israel Thursday, calling the Jewish state a “ray of hope” and discussing plans to strengthen the “unbreakable bond” between the U.S. and Israel.

In a statement released to Israel Hayom – an Israeli daily owned by American-Jewish Republican donor Sheldon Adelson, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump said that Israel is a “ray of hope” in the world.

“I love and respect Israel and its citizens,” Trump declared.

“Israel and the US share so many common values, like free speech, freedom of worship, and the special emphasis on creating opportunities for all citizens to fulfill their dreams.”

“I look forward to strengthening the unbreakable bond between our two great peoples,” he continued. “I know well that Israel is the only democracy in the Middle East, and that it is the only one that defends human rights, and that it is a ray of hope for many people.”

Trump also reassured Israelis that he will not force an agreement with the Palestinians that would go against Israel’s interests, apparently in unison with Jerusalem’s policy that a peaceful solution can only be found through direct negotiations between the two parties.

“I believe that my administration will be able to fill an important role in aiding the two sides to reach a just and lasting peace, one which must come through negotiations between the two sides themselves, and not through coercion by outside elements. Israel and the Jewish people deserve it,” Trump asserted.

By: United with Israel Staff