Israeli President Isaac Herzog visits Romania for 85th anniversary of Iași pogrom

Israeli President Isaac Herzog made a two‑day state visit to Romania in late June 2026. He took part in the 85th‑anniversary commemorations of the Iași pogrom, where more than 13,000 Jews were murdered in 1941. The programme included a ceremony at the Iași Jewish Cemetery, the “Marșul Vieții” rally, and a meeting with Romanian President Nicușor Dan at the Cotroceni Palace. Herzog’s remarks highlighted the historic role of Romania’s Jewish community in the foundation of Israel and called for vigilance against the resurgence of antisemitism. Romanian officials – President Dan, Senate President Mircea Abrudean, Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan, Ilfov County Council President Hubert Thuma and others – delivered messages stressing the duty to preserve the memory of the victims, to combat hate and to educate future generations about the Holocaust. The visit also underscored the strategic partnership between Romania and Israel, with discussions on economic cooperation, security, and regional stability. Across the events, the leaders affirmed a shared commitment to truth, remembrance and the fight against intolerance.