Israeli President Isaac Herzog and his wife Michal arrived in Bucharest Monday for a state visit to Romania, receiving a formal welcome ceremony at the Presidential Palace from Romanian President Nicusor Dan, as the two leaders held bilateral talks covering security cooperation, trade, the war against Iran, and the fragility of democracy in an era of rising antisemitism.
After the playing of both national anthems and a review of the honor guard, Herzog and Dan held a political meeting followed by an expanded bilateral session, addressing what both leaders described as a deepening strategic partnership rooted in centuries of shared Jewish history.
"My visit is a symbol of the special ties between our two nations, rooted in hundreds of years of Jewish history in Romania," Herzog said in remarks to the press. "The famous Jewish communities of Romania played a central role in shaping the life of this country for centuries. Thousands of Israelis of Romanian origin, and the proud Jewish community here in Romania, form a living and stable bridge between our two nations."
The Israeli president did not shy away from the darkest themes of the moment. "Ugly antisemitism is once again spreading across the world, and we must stand together against this dangerous hatred, here in Europe and across the globe," he warned. "Antisemitism is a danger to all of humanity. We will not allow Jews to feel threatened simply because of their faith. Holocaust commemoration and education are essential so that we never forget. I commend Romania for its commitment to teaching this history to future generations."
On the regional war, Herzog was direct. "Since the terrible massacre of October 7, 2023, Israel has been contending with a multi-front war against Iran and its terror proxies, including Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis. But this war is not only against Israel. It is a war that Iran's empire of evil is waging against the free world. Romania understands the Iranian threat deeply, and we greatly appreciate your steadfast support for Israel in this important struggle."
Addressing the Lebanon framework signed last Friday, Herzog called it a potential cornerstone of regional peace. "Israel seeks peace with Lebanon, on condition that it be free from the control of Iran's terror regime. I welcome the memorandum signed between Israel and Lebanon, which can become a foundation stone for such peace. I call on the European Union and the international community to support this process, help Lebanon restore its stability, and support Israel's security."
He closed with a pointed message to European leaders calling for boycotts and sanctions against Israel. "To those in Europe calling for boycotts and sanctions against Israel, I say: change course. Threats will not advance peace. Dialogue will. Speak with Israel, cooperate with us, and let us move forward together."
