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Obama in Jerusalem in 2008
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Watch: Obama's Rosh Hashana greeting

US president issues annual Rosh Hashana greeting, wishing all who celebrate the holiday year of peace

WASHINGTON - US President Barack Obama issued his traditional Rosh Hashana video greeting on Tuesday, wishing the Jewish people a year of peace and reiterating his administration's "commitment to the State of Israel."

 

 

"As the High Holidays begin, we look back on all the moments during the past year that gave us reason to hope. Around the world, a new generation is reaching for their universal rights. Here in the United States, we’ve responded to our challenges by focusing on the things that really matter – friendship, family, and community," he says in his video greeting.  

 

 

"But this last year was also one of hardship for people around the world. Too many of our friends and neighbors continue to struggle in the wake of a terrible economic recession. And beyond our borders, many of our closest allies – including the State of Israel – face the uncertainties of an unpredictable age.

 

"That is why my Administration is doing everything we can to promote prosperity here at home and security and peace throughout the world – and that includes reaffirming our commitment to the State of Israel. While we cannot know all that the New Year will bring, we do know this: the United States will continue to stand with Israel, because the bond between our two nations is unshakable.

 

"As Jewish tradition teaches us, we may not complete the work, but that must never keep us from trying. In that spirit, Michelle and I wish you, your families, and all who celebrate Rosh Hashanah a sweet year full of health, happiness, and peace," he concludes.

 

Obama, whose recent UN General Assembly address was widely considered pro-Israeli, is said to be courting the Jewish vote ahead of the 2012 presidential elections.

 

A survey released by AJC, a Jewish advocacy group, on Monday suggested that Obama’s handling of US-Israel relations has caused a drop in Jewish support for his administration.

 

According to the survey, Jewish approval of Obama’s performance as president declined to 45%, with another 48% disapproving and 7% undecided. The survey showed that if the 2012 presidential elections were held today, Obama would still hold a considerable lead over potential Republican challengers among Jewish voters. But the margin differed significantly depending on which candidate the GOP fields.

 

 

 


פרסום ראשון: 09.27.11, 20:18
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