BERLUSCONI AT ROSH HA SHANA MEAL VOWS SUPPORT FOR ISRAEL AND CALLS THE FLOTILLAS A PROVOCATION
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Berlusconi dons a kippah at the ambassador’s holiday meal (Photo: Stefano Meloni)
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 / Israel News
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
aftervisiting 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.”
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