Israeli Ambassador to the US Ron Dermer held a virtual Hanukkah lighting on Saturday with Bahraini Ambassador to the US Abdulla Rashid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa and UAE Ambassador to the US Yousef Al Otaiba, to mark the holiday’s third day by lighting the candles of the hanukkiah (candelabra) together. The candle lighting was held in the wake of the signing of the Abraham Accords between Israel, the UAE and Bahrain earlier this year.
“It was the year of the pandemic, but it was also the year of peace,” said Dermer as an opening.
“UAE Ambassador to the US Yousef Al Otaiba and Bahraini Ambassador to the US Abdulla Al Khalifa played a critical role” in the signing of the Abraham Accords, continued the Israeli ambassador, “honored” that they have joined him to celebrate the Jewish holiday of light.
“This year, I’m lighting the Hanukkah candles with you at the same time the Jewish community in the UAE are lighting their Hanukkah candles. Now that is peace,” Otaiba said. “Next year, let us hope we can celebrate this holiday together in person.”
He continued, saying “this year, may look and feel a little different, as the Covid-19 pandemic continues to impact our daily lives. But I’m still filled with hope – that 2021 will bring a brand new start for us.”
