Obama to Peres: US committed to Israel's security

US president writes letter to Israeli counterpart on occasion of Independence Day, calls bilateral bonds "deep, strong."

By JPOST.COM STAFF
US PResident Barack Obama in the Oval Office 370 (R) (photo credit: REUTERS/Jason Reed)
US PResident Barack Obama in the Oval Office 370 (R)
(photo credit: REUTERS/Jason Reed)
US President Barack Obama emphasized the shared values of the United States and Israel and Washington's steadfast commitment to the Jewish state in a letter sent to President Shimon Peres on the occasion of Independence Day this week.
The US president sent his "warmest regards and congratulations on behalf of the American people" ahead of the 64th anniversary of Israel's independence.
Obama wrote that "based on shared values and interests, the bonds between our two countries are deep and strong."
"In a time of momentous change," he continued," the United States remains steadfast in its commitment to Israel's security and a comprehensive peace in the region."
Noting cooperative work to pursue common goals and meet shared challenges, the US president added, "I wish the State of Israel continued prosperity and a peaceful future."
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On Monday in Washington, Obama spoke at the US Holocaust Memorial Museum and declared the legacy of the Holocaust challenges the US to do everything it can to keep Iran from acquiring a nuclear bomb.
“‘Never again’ is a challenge to defend the fundamental right of free people and free nations to exist in peace and security – and that includes the State of Israel,” said Obama, speaking at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in honor of the annual commemoration of the Shoah. “I will always be there for Israel.”Related:
He continued, “When faced with a regime that threatens global security and denies the Holocaust and threatens to destroy Israel, the United States will do everything in our power to prevent Iran from getting a nuclear weapon.”
Obama also said that, “‘Never again’ is a challenge to reject hatred in all of its forms – including anti-Semitism, which has no place in a civilized world.”
Hilary Leila Krieger contributed to this report.