President Isaac Herzog congratulated US President Donald Trump on his 80th birthday on Sunday, praising his support for Israel, his stance toward Iran, and his efforts to secure the release of the Gaza hostages.
In a message posted to X/Twitter, Herzog said the people of Israel were grateful for Trump’s leadership in confronting what he called Iran’s “empire of evil,” as well as for his commitment to Israel’s security.
The warm message came despite recent public tensions between the two presidents over Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s corruption trial. Trump has repeatedly called on Herzog to pardon Netanyahu, at one point describing the Israeli president as a “disgrace” and saying he would not meet him until he acted.
Herzog’s office responded at the time that Israel is a sovereign state governed by the rule of law and that any decision on a pardon would be made in accordance with the law and without external pressure.
In his birthday message, Herzog also highlighted Trump’s role in efforts to free hostages held in Gaza, saying Israel would remember his work on the issue.
The president framed the birthday greeting around a Jewish teaching associated with the age of 80, saying it marks a stage of special strength. He ended the message with the traditional greeting, “Mazal tov.”
US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee also wished Trump a big “HAPPY BIRTHDAY” on X, with a blessing for good health and “continued strong leadership.”
“Go ahead, enjoy the cake!” Huckabee wrote. “You’ve more than earned it!”
