Israel marked 75 years of independence this week with celebrations taking place across the country.
In their annual flypast, the Israeli Air Force were joined by fighter jets from the UK, the U.S., Germany and Italy, to mark the special anniversary. This was the first time in 25 years foreign air forces took part in the Independence Day display.
Foreign Secretary James Cleverly, tweeted: “Yom Ha’atzmaut Sameach to Israel on its 75th birthday. There is so much that unites us. Together we stand defiant against the malign influence of Iran and against the scourge of antisemitism”. The Foreign Secretary released a further statement citing “the strong ties between the UK and Israel over the past 75 years” as a “testament to the strength of our close and historic relationship”.
The British Embassy in Israel, reaffirmed its support for Israel and its commitment towards Israel’s security. In a statement, the Embassy said: “For the past 75 years, the UK has been clear about Israel’s right to exist and is unequivocal in supporting Israeli security and right to self-defence, in the face of threats from its neighbours, particularly Iran”. “As we reflect on the past 75 years of friendship between the UK and Israel, we are also looking ahead to the future”, they added.
British Ambassador to Israel, Neil Wigan, said: “I am proud of the strength of the UK-Israel relationship. Whether it’s our trade, tourism, technological collaboration, culture or security, both countries will continue to work together”. “I know that the past 75-year relationship is just the beginning of what is an ever-evolving, ever-closer relationship”, he concluded.
