Herzog: I ‘respect’ criticism from members of Congress, but not delegitimization

WASHINGTON — President Isaac Herzog speaks at length about the values Israel and the US share.

“It is not dependent upon operating in harmony, but on the history we share, on the truths we cherish, on the values we embody,” he says. “This partnership is based also on the similarities and the affinity between our peoples, the courageous immigrants, and the trailblazing pioneers. It is rooted deep in our respective declarations of independence.”

“Israel and the United States stand — and indeed, have always stood for the same values,” he says. “Our two nations are both diverse, life-affirming societies that stand for liberty, equality, and freedom. At our core, both our peoples seek to repair the cracks in our world.”

Herzog recognizes that the new generation which does not remember Israel’s formative years, may take the relationship for granted.

“We are provided the opportunity to reaffirm and redefine the future of our relationship,” he says. “Each of us here has a decisive role in the future we are building.”

He says that the two countries face similar threats, and must seek out solutions together.

“To us, it is clear that America is irreplaceable to Israel, and Israel is irreplaceable to America. It is time to design the next stage of our evolving friendship and our growing partnership together.”

The president says he recognizes that some Congress members have criticism of Israel.

“I respect criticism, especially from friends, although one does not always have to accept it,” he says, to chuckles from the audience and applause.

“But criticism of Israel must not cross the line into negation of the State of Israel’s right to exist,” he adds, to loud and extended applause. “Questioning the Jewish people’s right to self-determination, is not legitimate diplomacy, it is antisemitism.”