President Isaac Herzog hosted Ambassador Mike Waltz, the United States Representative to the United Nations, at the President's Residence in Jerusalem today, joined by Israel's Ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon. Their discussions focused on the ongoing diplomatic efforts surrounding UN Security Council Resolution 2803 and President Trump’s Peace Plan, as well as the continued demand for the return of Staff Sgt. Ran Gvili, the last hostage still held in Gaza.
During the meeting, Herzog thanked Waltz for what he described as the Ambassador’s key role in securing the adoption of the resolution last month. He emphasized that its implementation must move forward quickly to prevent destabilizing forces in the region from exploiting delays.
“Mr. Ambassador, we're very happy that you're here,” Herzog told Waltz, noting the significance of his first official visit to Israel since assuming the role. He praised the resolution as “historic” and said it establishes “a benchmark for the Day After,” reflecting what he called the grand vision of President Trump. Herzog warned that regional threats such as Iran and its proxies are attempting to regroup, underscoring the need to maintain momentum.
The President highlighted Israel’s role on what he termed “the frontier of civilization,” stressing the heavy price paid since October 7th and the importance of ensuring the world understands Israel’s strategic significance. He also raised the international campaign led by his wife addressing the sexual violence perpetrated on October 7th, urging Waltz to keep the issue at the forefront of his agenda.
Ambassador Waltz, in response, described President Trump’s 20-point plan as “absolutely historic” and noted that its endorsement by the UN Security Council-by a vote of 13 to 0-was accompanied by public support from Arab and Muslim-majority nations, as well as acceptance from the Palestinian Authority. He credited President Trump, Secretary Rubio, and envoys Witkoff and Kushner for what he called a broad team effort.
Waltz said the resolution provides a concrete framework for moving forward, including the establishment of a technocratic Palestinian authority to restore essential services in Gaza, a funding mechanism, and an international stabilization force. He reiterated President Trump’s position that “Hamas has to go,” stressing that the United States is determined to end what he described as a recurring “cycle of insanity” in which Hamas survives and rebuilds.
“One of the many reasons I'm here,” Waltz said, “is to see that implemented.”