April 5, 2023
U.S. Embassy Jerusalem Press Release: U.S. Ambassador to Israel Hosts the Embassy’s annual Iftar
Celebrating the Holy Month of Ramadan, U.S. Ambassador to Israel Tom Nides hosted the Embassy’s annual Iftar meal on April 3rd, 2023, the first in-person Iftar since the outbreak of the Coronavirus pandemic.
The event was attended by Embassy officials, diverse partners and alumni of Embassy programs, prominent figures from the Arab community, and representatives from Jewish community. The Ambassadors of Egypt and Bahrain, and the head of the Liaison office of the Kingdom of Morocco in Israel, attended as well.
The event commenced with a prayer by Sheikh Ashraf Abu Shumais, followed by breaking the fast and a musical performance. Ambassador Nides delivered remarks in which he extended his greetings to those observing the Month of Ramadan stressing the United States’ commitment to tolerance, religious freedom and promoting diversity and inclusivity.
Ambassador Nides welcomed a group of Arab Mayors and Engineers from the towns of Sakhnin, Arraba, Ilaboun, Kaukab Abu al-Hija, and Kabul who returned from a 3-week U.S. Government-sponsored International Visitors Leadership Program in the U.S.
The program was in cooperation with The Towns Association for Environmental Quality and focused on climate change, green building and sustainable energy.
Dr. Safwat Abu Raya, mayor of Sakhnin said on behalf of the group, “It was an amazing and enriching experience in which we had the opportunity to learn from American models and experiences in the field, which we plan to implement in our own towns.”
“The beautiful diversity we’ve witnessed in the U.S. is admirable and is something we hope will be cherished back home too, to strengthen the partnerships among all diverse communities,” he added.
“It was an honor and a pleasure to host this Iftar event and meet our esteemed guests. Events like this bring people together and emphasize our commitment to strengthen mutual understanding among the diverse groups of Israeli society,” said Ambassador Nides.
Event photo Album: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjAyvs4
For further information please contact Sari Shbeta : Shbetasa@state.gov
