U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo issued the following statement on the occasion of Yom Ha’atzma’ut, Israel’s Independence Day:
“On behalf of the American people, I offer best wishes and congratulations to all Israelis as you mark the 71st anniversary of Israel’s independence.
“On this day, the friendship between the United States and Israel has never been stronger. As I said on my last visit to Israel, the alliance that Israel shares with the people of the United States is based on our shared values of liberty and democracy. Together, we will continue to work toward a safer, more stable, and more prosperous Middle East.
“I am filled with great pride in all that the United States and Israel have accomplished together over the course of the last 71 years, and particularly over the last year. We have worked closely together to counter Iranian aggression, enhance Israel’s relationships in the region, and foster even closer ties between our peoples. I am proud to affirm our continued support for Israel.
“Yom Ha’atzmaut Sameach.”