Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu extended congratulations and his "warmest wishes" to President Donald Trump, who was just inaugurated for his second term on Monday evening.
"Your first term as President was filled with groundbreaking moments in the history of the great alliance between our two countries," Netanyahu added.
The Israeli prime minister drew attention to various moves made by Trump during his first term, including the decision to withdraw from the Iran nuclear deal, his recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, and of Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights and the transfer of America's embassy to Jerusalem.
"You brokered the historic Abraham Accords in which Israel made peace with four Arab countries," Netanyahu added. "I believe that working together again we will raise the US-Israel alliance to even greater heights."
He also thanked Trump for his help securing the release of the hostages, adding he looked forward to bringing the remaining hostages home with the new president's support.
Other goals of the two countries would be to "destroy Hamas’ military capabilities and end its political rule in Gaza, and to ensure that Gaza never again poses a threat to Israel."
"I am sure, Mr. President, that under your leadership, the best days of our alliance are yet to come״.
Trump said on Sunday that he was "glad to report that the first hostages have just been released."
Hostages thank Trump
Several released Israeli hostages and their families have expressed support and gratitude to Trump for his efforts in securing their release.
The family of Doron Steinbrecher, who was released on Sunday after 471 days in captivity, extend "gratitude to President Trump for his significant involvement and support, which meant so much to us."
Liran Berman, the brother of hostages Gali and Ziv Berman, said "President Trump, I want to thank you for everything you have done to make this deal possible. I am here to ask—no, to urge—you to ensure that this deal follows through in its entirety, without delays or stops."
Einav Zangauker, the mother of Matan, who is held captive by Hamas, directed a message to Trump saying "Me and the families thank you for making this deal happen."
"Mister President, we ask you to protect the deal, make sure it is fully implemented. Please, finish this nightmare and make everyone honor the agreement. Get the second part of the agreement negotiated now!"
Israeli officials congratulate Trump
Former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant posted on X saying: "Welcome back, President Trump!"
Welcome back, President Trump! @realDonaldTrump
— יואב גלנט - Yoav Gallant (@yoavgallant) January 20, 2025
Israel's Social Equality and Women's Advancement Minister May Golan posted on X addressing Trump and First Lady Melania Trump. "The people of Israel are enthusiastic and excited about your entry into the White House. You did not allow any force or obstacle to prevent you from reaching this special position, from which you have previously projected love and embraced us, and I am convinced you will continue to do so in the future.
"Your dream team, Mr. President, shows that you have come to work for the citizens of the United States, and we pray for your prosperity and flourishing in all aspects.
Dear President @realDonaldTrump and First Lady @MELANIATRUMP,The people of Israel are enthusiastic and excited about your entry into the White House. You did not allow any force or obstacle to prevent you from reaching this special position, from which you have previously… pic.twitter.com/EKMpcPMOdY
— May Golan מאי גולן (@GolanMay) January 20, 2025
"In God we trust. We pray for His providence over our two nations and for His unwavering aid to you, as together we stand among all just nations to preserve peace and prosperity throughout the world."