(February 26, 2020 / JNS) Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his “deep sorrow” over the death of former long-time Egyptian leader Hosni Mubarak, who passed away on Tuesday in Cairo at the age of 91.
“President Mubarak, my personal friend, was a leader who led his people to peace and security, to peace with Israel. I met with him many times. I was impressed by his commitment; we will continue to follow this common path,” said Netanyahu in a statement.
“I would like to send condolences” to Egyptian president Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and “to the Mubarak family and to the Egyptian people,” he said.
Mubarak led Egypt for almost 30 years before being toppled by an Arab uprising in 2011. He kept Islamic radicals at bay and maintained the peace with Israel.
Egyptian state television said Mubarak died at a hospital in Cairo after undergoing surgery, the AP reported.
Following news of Mubarak’s death, el-Sisi announced a three days of national mourning starting on Wednesday, and said in a statement: “The Presidency mourns with great sorrow the former President of the Republic, Mr. Mohammed Hosni Mubarak.”
U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, Saudi Arabia’s King Salman, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and the United Arab Emirates also released statements of condolences, according to the report.
Israeli President Reuven Rivlin sent a letter of condolence to el-Sisi, in which he wrote: “On behalf of the State of Israel and personally, I would like to extend my deepest condolences on the passing of President Hosni Mubarak to you, to Madame Suzanne Mubarak and their sons, and to the people of Egypt,” according to Ynet.
Support Jewish Journalism
with 2020 Vision
One of the most intriguing stories of the sudden Coronavirus crisis is the role of the internet. With individuals forced into home quarantine, most are turning further online for information, education and social interaction.
JNS's influence and readership are growing exponentially, and our positioning sets us apart. Most Jewish media are advocating increasingly biased progressive political and social agendas. JNS is providing more and more readers with a welcome alternative and an ideological home.
During this crisis, JNS continues working overtime. We are being relied upon to tell the story of this crisis as it affects Israel and the global Jewish community, and explain the extraordinary political developments taking place in parallel.
Our ability to thrive in 2020 and beyond depends on the generosity of committed readers and supporters. Monthly donations in particular go a long way in helping us sustain our operations. We greatly appreciate any contributions you can make during these challenging times. We thank you for your ongoing support and wish you blessings for good health and peace of mind.