The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with singer David D'Or, extended New Year greetings exactly at 7:00 AM UTC on September 22nd, 2025, wishing for a year of hope, peace, and joy. In a message shared via X, the Ministry stated that 'music transcends borders and unites hearts,' expressing hope for harmony, renewal, and blessings in the coming year. The sentiment was further illustrated by comparing the new year to the pomegranate, a fruit of the Land of Israel, symbolizing sweetness and abundance, and concluded with the traditional Hebrew New Year greeting, "Shana Tova! 🍎🍯." These greetings come amidst heightened diplomatic activity and international discussions concerning the recognition of a Palestinian state. On September 22nd, 2025, Belgium announced its recognition, following similar moves by the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada on September 21st, 2025. Saudi Arabia welcomed these recognitions on September 21st, viewing them as a commitment to peace and a two-state solution. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu strongly rejected these recognitions, calling them a 'huge reward to terrorism' and asserting that "there will be no Palestinian state."
