French President Nicolas Sarkozy told French Jewish leaders Wednesday he will visit Israel for its celebrations marking the 60th year since the re-establishment of the Jewish State. It will be the first time he has visited Israel since he was elected last year. The first president in office to address the annual meeting of the umbrella CRIF organization of French Jews, Sarkozy also said he will deliver a speech in the Knesset.

Sarkozy added that he will not shake the hand of anyone who does not recognize Israel. "France will always be at Israel's side," he told the audience. He also urged Israel to release more Arab terrorists ands called Jewish communities in Judea and Samaria an "obstacle to peace."