President Isaac Herzog on Monday welcomed the Israeli government’s decision to resume supply deliveries to the Gaza Strip, framing the move as a moral and strategic necessity.
“I also welcome the Israeli Cabinet’s decision to resume the transfer of humanitarian aid, which is critical for maintaining basic human conditions. This step is vital in order for Israel to maintain its military capabilities, to operate in accordance with international law, and most importantly—in order for us to maintain our humanity within this tragedy,” Herzog said.
The Israeli president made the remarks at the 17th Plenary Assembly of the World Jewish Congress, held in Jerusalem.
This morning at the 17th Plenary Assembly, Israeli President @Isaac_Herzog awarded WJC President @lauder_ronald the Presidential Medal of Honor, Israel’s highest civilian award, in recognition of his lifelong dedication to the Jewish people and the State of Israel.⁰⁰“You are a… pic.twitter.com/U3YvTnxibu
— World Jewish Congress (@WorldJewishCong) May 19, 2025
“Israel is facing a cruel, sinister enemy, that has tortured innocent lives, burned and maimed and abducted our sisters and brothers. But we are better. We will not allow our enemy to dehumanize us. We must be better. We will always lead with our humanity,” he said.
Describing the pain inflicted by the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas-led attacks, Herzog told the audience:
“We have all been undergoing devastating, unprecedented times. Huge agony and pain have befallen our nation. The nation of Israel.
“Since Oct. 7, Michal and I met with well over 1,100 bereaved families, hundreds of wounded civilians and soldiers, and countless evacuees. And above all—we meet and are in contact, on an almost hourly basis, with hostages’ families, and we are fighting for the immediate release of our hostages, every single one of them,” he said.
He also referenced his recent trip to the Vatican:
“Yesterday, at the Vatican I met with Pope Leo XIV, and the sticker I wore, with the unfathomable number 590—reflecting the scars we all carry on our hearts. We need them home now,” he said, in a reference to the number of days the captives have been held in Gaza.
“We salute our courageous IDF soldiers who are in combat as we speak,” Herzog added.
He opened his remarks with appreciation for the Diaspora leaders in attendance:
“The global Jewish leadership, here in this hall, is profoundly impactful and therefore very significant. I welcome the many friends joining us today and I wish all of you great success,” Herzog said.
