“An Incredible Organization Doing Extraordinary Good Throughout the World”
In a historic visit, Israel President Isaac Herzog and his wife, Michal Herzog, visited the Rebbe’s Ohel this morning. Hosted by Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky of Chabad Headquarters, the visit marked the first time an Israeli First Couple visited the Tziyon.
After landing in New York earlier this morning, President Herzog and the First Lady began their diplomatic trip to the United States with a visit to the Ohel. The visit comes ahead of the President’s speech at the United Nations tomorrow, marking International Holocaust Remembrance Day.
The President was welcomed by Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, who hosted the visit on behalf of Chabad Headquarters. During their time at the Ohel, the First Couple had the opportunity to study the Sicha that the Rebbe delivered when President Herzog visited the Rebbe as a 15-year-old during Simchas Torah in 5737 (1976). At the time, he accompanied his father, Chaim Herzog, who was then Israel’s Ambassador to the United Nations.
The First Couple was also greeted by senior Chabad Shluchim, including Rabbi Shmuel Kaplan, Head Shliach of Chabad Maryland; Rabbi Sholom Duchman, director of Colel Chabad; and Rabbi Zalman Wolowik, Shliach to the Five Towns.
The President inquired about the well-being of Chabad’s 6,000 Shluchim stationed globally and discussed the critical role Chabad plays in supporting Jewish communities worldwide. He also shared personal memories of his close friendship with Rabbi Moshe Kotlarsky, OB”M.
The President and the First Lady davened at the Ohel and left a Tzetl, which read:
“For the speedy and complete recovery and return of all hostages, for the victory and safety of IDF soldiers and security forces wherever they are, for the healing of all the wounded, and for the return of evacuees. Amen.”
“We are very moved to be here at the resting place of the Rebbe,” said President Herzog. “We pray for good news, for the safe and speedy return of all the hostages.”
“Chabad is an incredible organization doing extraordinary good throughout the world. I want to thank Rabbi Kotlarsky and Chabad leadership, and I send strength to the Shluchim to continue their tremendous work of Ahavas Yisroel,” President Herzog added.
Credit: Yossi Kurat/Merkos
