Israeli President Isaac Herzog met with soldiers and commanders of the Hasmonean Brigade, the first ultra-Orthodox division in the IDF, to extend New Year wishes on September 22nd, 2025, according to his X account. Herzog described the soldiers as embodying "mutual guarantee, resilience, and great hope for our people," highlighting their mission connecting faith, defense, Torah, and community. The report from his X account at 6:04 AM UTC comes amidst ongoing diplomatic tensions regarding the recognition of a Palestinian state by several European nations, and following the Israeli Prime Minister's strong rejection of such moves. In parallel developments, a fan carrying a Palestinian flag entered the field during a Barcelona match, as reported on X at 5:00 AM UTC on September 22nd. Separately, Danny Ayalon, reportedly outside the UN building with Rabbi Neumann, wished a "good year" and summarized the past year's achievements for Israel, pledging to work to bring home all hostages and defeat Hamas. These events occur in the wake of Belgium's announcement of its recognition of the State of Palestine on September 22nd, 2025, following similar recognitions 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. Earlier, Israeli Foreign Minister Gidon Saar met with UK politicians in New York on September 21st, concluding at 10:04 PM UTC, to express gratitude for their opposition to Portugal's recognition of Palestine.
