Ambassador Oren, with Congress members Nancy Pelosi (D-CA, center) and Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA, right), at the Embassy's Independence day celebration in Washington D.C., April 16, 2013.
On Tuesday April 16, The Embassy of Israel hosted its annual Independence Day Celebration, in honor of Israel's 65 years of Independence.
Ambassador Oren spoke about Israel's triumphs as well as its challenges. He also highlighted the relationship between Israel and the U.S., stating "For us, on this, our most joyous moment, celebrating our independence is inextricably linked with our love and admiration for America."
More than 1,000 local leaders, diplomats, and Israel supporters attended the event at the Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium in Washington DC.
The keynote address was provided by White House Chief of Staff Dennis McDonough, who stressed the strength of the alliance between Israel and the U.S. Minority leader of the House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi, spoke about Israel, calling it "One of the greatest achievements of the 20th Century." Chair of the House Republican conference, Cathy McMorris Rodgers, also spoke at the event, highlighting the unbreakable bond between Israel and the U.S.
Ambassador Oren greets White House Chief of Staff Dennis McDonough.