As part of his diplomatic visit to Israel and ahead of the fast of Tisha B’Av, US Special Envoy to the Middle East Mr. Steve Witkoff, visited and prayed at the Western Wall after walking on foot from his hotel to the Western Wall Plaza.
He was welcomed by Rabbi Shmuel Rabinowitz, Rabbi of the Western Wall and the Holy Sites, who explained the spiritual and historical significance of the Western Wall to the Jewish people as a center of prayer, longing, and hope—especially in these times.
Rabbi Rabinowitz thanked the American envoy for his efforts on behalf of the State of Israel and for the release of the hostages, noting that this is one of the most important mitzvot (commandments) in Judaism.
During the visit, Witkoff was warmly received by dozens of worshippers present at the site, who expressed their gratitude for his strong support of Israel.
The envoy also toured the new Gateway to Heaven (Sha'ar HaShamayim) exhibit, recently opened to the public, which connects visitors to the historical journey of the Jewish people and Jerusalem through the generations.
At the end of his visit, Witkoff offered a personal prayer, placed a note between the stones of the Wall, and signed the guest book:
"I pray for the hostages and for the end of the war."
