High Holy Days 'a time of prayer, repentance,' Trump says

US President Donald Trump wished American Jews a happy new year ahead of Rosh Hashana.

By MICHAEL WILNER
Donald Trump (photo credit: REUTERS)
Donald Trump
(photo credit: REUTERS)
NEW YORK -- US President Donald Trump released a videotaped message to Jewish families on Monday, wishing them "many blessings" and a happy new year as they enter the holiday season.
"The High Holy Days are a time of both reflection on the past year and hope for renewal in the year to come," Trump said. Rosh Hashana begins on Wednesday night, and Yom Kippur, the day of atonement, is marked the following week. "Jewish communities across the country, and around the world, enter into a time of prayer, repentance, and rededication to the sacred values and traditions that guide the incredible character, and spirit, of the Jewish people."
"We reaffirm the unbreakable bond between the United States and Israel, and we ask God to deliver justice, dignity, and peace on Earth," he added. "Melania and I wish everyone a sweet, healthy, and peaceful year, which we hope will bring many blessings to all."
Last Friday, Trump offered a similar message on a brief conference call with Jewish community leaders. On that call, he expressed "love" for Israel, disassociated himself from antisemitic groups aligned with his political movement and vowed to pursue a comprehensive peace agreement in the Middle East.
"This next New Year also offers a new opportunity to seek peace between the Israelis and Palestinians, and I am very hopeful that we will see significant progress before the end of the year," Trump said, adding: "We forcefully condemn those who seek to incite antisemitism, or to spread any form of slander and hate– and I will ensure we protect Jewish communities, and all communities, that face threats to their safety."