Israel's President Receives Credentials from Five New Ambassadors

President Isaac Herzog formally accepted the letters of credence from five new ambassadors to Israel at the President's Residence on Tuesday. The new envoys represent Rwanda, France, Austria, the Netherlands, and Ghana. A formal ceremony was held for the ambassadors, featuring the playing of their national anthems by the IDF orchestra and a review of the honor guard. Following the presentation of their credentials, President Herzog held individual meetings with each ambassador. During his meeting with the Dutch ambassador, Stella Ronner-Grubacic, President Herzog addressed the fight against antisemitism and political tensions, expressing concern over public discourse and statements made by figures within the Dutch government. While praising King Willem-Alexander for his firm stance against antisemitism, Herzog criticized certain aspects of the relationship, stating, "This is a challenging period in relations between Israel and the Netherlands. There are those who choose to attack Israel without properly recognizing it as a strong democracy, its right to self-defense, and its important role in protecting the security of all of Europe."

After their meetings, the ambassadors signed the official guest book of the President's Residence.