US President Donald Trump and Israeli President Isaac Herzog seen during a special plenum session in honor of President Trump at the Knesset, Israel’s parliament in Jerusalem, on October 13, 2025. (Yonatan Sindel/Flash90)
Ignoring Trump’s personal criticisms, President Isaac Herzog wishes his US counterpart a happy 80th birthday, lauds Trump’s pro-Israel policies.
By World Israel News Staff
Israeli President Isaac Herzog wished US President Donald Trump a happy 80th birthday on Sunday, praising his support for Israel, his role in confronting Iran and his efforts to secure the release of hostages held in Gaza.
Trump turned 80 on Sunday, as his administration pursued a possible agreement with Iran aimed at ending months of conflict and reopening the Strait of Hormuz.
US and Iranian officials have differed over the timing of a possible signing, with Trump saying it could take place Sunday and Tehran saying no final decision had been made.
In a message to Trump, Herzog wrote: “Happy 80th birthday, President Donald J. Trump! Your remarkable journey to the White House represents the breadth of the American dream and the power of your own resolve.”
“The people of Israel are grateful for your leadership in confronting Iran’s empire of evil and for your steadfast commitment to the security of Israel. We will never forget your tireless efforts in securing the release of our beloved hostages. May you lead the Middle East and the world toward peace and security and continue to strengthen the unique US-Israel partnership.”
“In Jewish tradition, it is stated that at the age of eighty you gain unique prowess. May you enjoy your beautiful family and many happy birthdays with blessings and joy. Mazal tov!”
Herzog’s reference to the hostages came eight months after the release of the remaining living Israeli hostages held in Gaza under a US-brokered ceasefire and prisoner-exchange agreement. Trump visited Israel at the time, addressed the Knesset and joined regional leaders in Egypt for talks on the Gaza ceasefire.
The Israeli president’s birthday message also came during renewed focus on US-Israel coordination over Iran.
Trump has said a deal with Tehran may be imminent, while Iranian officials have said the timing remains uncertain. The possible agreement follows months of regional fighting involving the US, Israel and Iran, and comes amid continued Israeli concern over Iran’s nuclear program, missiles and support for allied armed groups.
Trump has remained a central figure in Israeli politics and diplomacy since returning to the White House.
During his October 2025 visit to Israel, he publicly urged Herzog to pardon Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is on trial on corruption charges.
Netanyahu denies wrongdoing, and Herzog has not issued a pardon, drawing sharp criticism from Trump, who has claimed the Israeli president misled him about his intentions to pardon Netanyahu.
Herzog’s message avoided those domestic political disputes and focused instead on Trump’s relationship with Israel and the broader US-Israel alliance.
Proposed coalition would also need Shas support, despite its endorsement of Netanyahu.
The agency last estimated Iran held over 440 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60% purity.
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