Berlusconi celebrates Rosh Hashana

Italian prime minister vows to support Israel during holiday meal, calls Gaza flotilla a 'provocation'

Attila Somfalvi|Published: 09.12.10 , 09:53

Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi attended a Rosh Hashana meal held at the Rome residence of Israel's ambassador. Among his blessings and wishes for the new year, the Italian leader addressed the Israel Navy's flotilla raid. "Israel was forced to act the way it did because of a provocation," he said.

Berlusconi, who arrived at the traditional Rosh Hashana meal at the residence of Ambassador Gideon Meir and his wife Meira, spoke of international public relations efforts he led in favor of Israel following the flotilla.

Also attending the festive event were senior figures in the Italian media and leaders of Italy's economy. Berlusconi himself was joined by his cabinet secretary, Gianni Letta.

Berlusconi dons a kippah at the ambassador's holiday meal (Photo: Stefano Meloni)

During the meal, the Italian prime minister spoke on the phone with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in order to send his well wishes for the Jewish New Year. "I wish you, your family, and all the citizens of Israel a happy holiday," said Berlusconi.

Berlusconi also spoke of the political scandal in which he is currently embroiled in Italy. "Even though I am faced with difficulties, I will continue to serve as prime minister and support you and the people of Israel as much as possible," he said.

"I will support Israel as much as I can." Berlusconi at the meal (Photo: Stefano Meloni)

Ambassador Meir explained the importance of the holiday and said that it is usually spent with family.

Berlusconi responded, "It is a great honor that you consider me to be part of your family. I view myself as an honorary friend of Israel, especially after visiting the Auschwitz extermination camp and the Yad Vashem Holocaust Museum last February. Ever since, I often think about the cruel treatment of the Jewish people and the fact that so many families suffered from it. Israel can always rely on my friendship and my help."