U.S. President Donald Trump sent Wednesday his best wishes to the Israeli people and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as the nation marked 70 years of independence.
As Israel's celebrations got underway, Trump tweeted: "Best wishes to Prime Minister @Netanyahu and all of the people of Israel on the 70th Anniversary of your Great Independence. We have no better friends anywhere. Looking forward to moving our Embassy to Jerusalem next month!"
In December, Trump upended decades of U.S. policy by announcing the U.S. plans to relocate its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, officially recognizing Jerusalem as Israel's capital. A temporary embassy will be inaugurated in mid-May, coinciding with the anniversary of Israel founding.
Vice President Mike Pence also issued a statement on the occasion of Israel's Independence Day. Writing on twitter, he said: "Today we join our great ally Israel as they celebrate their 70th Anniversary of Independence. The miracle of Israel's rebirth in her historic homeland is an inspiration to the world & the American people are proud to stand w/ Israel on this historic day and every day."