During US Independence Day event, Netanyahu calls America ‘indispensable ally’

Speaking at an event at the Israel Museum in Jerusalem to honor the United States' 247th anniversary of independence, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called America an “indispensable ally.” 

Netanyahu thanked the U.S. for its support of Israel, saying, “For 75 years, the United States has been our irreplaceable and indispensable ally," he said, emphasizing America’s strong support from the very beginning of Israel’s modern existence.

“Eleven minutes after our birth, and at vital junctures throughout our history, America has provided Israel with moral and political backing against those committed to wiping us out, to wiping out the one and only Jewish state,” Netanyahu said. 

Netanyahu spoke optimistically about the future of the Israeli-American partnership. 

“I’m confident that Israel’s importance to the United States will become even clearer in the years ahead, as we work together not only to protect our common security, but also to develop the most advanced technologies that will reshape the 21st century.” 

Reminding the attendees that America’s independence “ensured the rise of freedom in modern times,” Netanyahu added that while “freedom is precious, it is never free.” 

The prime minister talked about the current Israeli military operation against terror centers in Jenin. 

“As I speak, our troops are battling the terrorists with unyielding resolve and fortitude, while doing everything, everything, to avoid civilian casualties,” he emphasized, saying that together, the U.S. and Israel would “thwart the danger posed by Iran and seize the opportunity to expand the circle of peace.” 

The premier also thanked U.S. Ambassador to Israel Tom Nides “for his service and for his friendship towards Israel.” 

Nides announced in May he will leave his post this summer after nearly two years in the role.

“During your tenure here, you’ve demonstrated that your support for Israel comes both from the head and from the heart,’ Netanyahu told Nides. 

Israeli President Isaac Herzog also spoke at the event and, like Netanyahu, spoke about Operation Home and Garden in Jenin. 

Speaking in Hebrew, Herzog said, “In recent months, Jenin has turned into a safe haven for terror,” before adding, “There are no places that are safe for terror.” 

Nides praised Netanyahu’s dedication to Israel in his speech.

“Your commitment and love for the State of Israel should always, always be commended,” he told the prime minister. 

Herzog is due to address both houses of the U.S. Congress on his visit to Washington, D.C. later this month to commemorate the 75th anniversary of Israel and celebrate the special relationship between the two countries. 

U.S. President Joe Biden has not yet invited Netanyahu to the U.S. for an official visit. Several U.S. officials have indicated this is due to Biden’s displeasure with the judicial reforms being pursued by Netanyahu’s government.