Herzog Congratulates Trump on 80th Birthday, Praises Iran Stance and Hostage Efforts

Israeli President Isaac Herzog sent a warm birthday message on Sunday morning to U.S. President Donald Trump for his 80th birthday, thanking him for his leadership against Iran and for his commitment to Israel’s security. Herzog wrote, “Happy 80th birthday, President Donald Trump!” and said Trump’s path to the White House reflected “the strength of the American dream” and exceptional determination.

Herzog said, “The people of Israel appreciate your leadership in standing up to the Iranian evil empire and your unwavering commitment to the security of the State of Israel.” He also thanked Trump for his efforts to free Israeli hostages, saying, “We will never forget your tireless efforts for the release of our dear hostages.”

The message came as senior Israeli officials voiced sharp warnings about the emerging framework agreement between the United States and Iran. Security sources said they feared the deal could harm Israel’s security interests, claiming that “the Iranians got everything they wanted.”

Herzog said he hoped Trump would continue to lead “the Middle East and the whole world toward a future of peace and security,” while strengthening the special alliance between the United States and Israel. He ended by invoking the Jewish saying that age 80 is a milestone of strength and wished Trump health, happiness, and many more birthdays. Trump said the previous evening that a framework agreement with Iran was expected to be signed that day, and opposition leader Yair Lapid called it a “total failure” by Benjamin Netanyahu that endangers Israel’s security.