President Pavel holding talks with senior leaders in Israel

Czechia fully respects Israel’s right to defend itself against terrorism and protect its citizens, visiting Czech President Petr Pavel assured his Israeli counterpart Isaac Herzog during their meeting on Monday. He said Israel was not just a good friend, but a strategic partner of the Czech Republic. At the same time, he expressed concern for the fate of civilians and hostages in this conflict and voiced the view that civilians on both sides should have access to humanitarian aid.

In the course of the two-day visit, Mr. Pavel will also meet with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other senior leaders, as well as with members of the families of people kidnapped by Hamas during an attack in early October. On Wednesday, the Czech head of state is due to visit Qatar, where he will also meet senior leaders.