Ted Cruz
Ted CruzReuters

US Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) on Sunday wished the Jewish people a Happy Hanukkah.

“The Jewish people will come together this evening to light candles beginning the eight days of observance of Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, and remember the great miracle that happened in Israel,” he said in a statement.

“This holiday celebrates the heroic revolt and triumph of the Maccabees, who liberated the historic land of Judea, rededicated the Second Temple in Jerusalem, and restored the right to worship freely. It is fitting that this year Hanukkah comes against the backdrop of the one-year anniversary of the United States acknowledging Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, and it will also be the first Hanukkah since we moved our embassy to its rightful place there,” continued Cruz.

“Heidi and I wish the Jewish people a very Happy Hanukkah.”

US President Donald Trump earlier on Sunday issued a greeting to the Jewish people on the occasion of Hanukkah.

"Melania and I send our warmest greetings to our Jewish brothers and sisters in the United States, in Israel, and around the world celebrating Hanukkah,” he wrote.

“Unfortunately, Jews today continue to face many different forms of violence, hatred, and bigotry around the globe. We remember all those from the Tree of Life—Or L’Simcha Congregation—whose lives were tragically taken in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, this past October. As one Nation, we pledge our continued love and support for the victims, their families, and the community, and we pray that the victims’ families find some measure of peace and comfort during this holiday season,” continued Trump.

First Lady Melania Trump later took to Twitter to extend Hanukkah greetings to the Jewish people.

“Wishing all who celebrate, a very Happy Hanukkah!” she wrote.

The President’s daughter, Ivanka Trump, who is Jewish, tweeted a Hanukkah greeting of her own.

“I hope the candles burning bright in Jewish homes around the world light up hearts and bring joy to all this holiday season. Happy Hanukkah,” she wrote.