Prime Minister Boris Johnson has stressed that the Government's commitment to Israel’s security “will be unshakable while I am Prime Minister”.

Recognising the enormous challenges both countries have faced as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, the PM also said  Israel’s recent peace deals with the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain were “extremely welcome developments.”

Mr Johnson added that he hoped to now see further breakthroughs in Israel’s relations with its neighbours  to help secure a more peaceful Middle East.

In a letter written for the Conservative Friends of Israel  (CFI) organisation’s new digital edition of Informed Magazine, he said: "I have always been proud to be considered a friend of Israel.

"From my first expeditions to Israel as a young man to my recent visits as Mayor and Foreign Secretary, I have always been struck by the ingenuity and fortitude of the Israeli people – and by the great achievements of the State of Israel in the face of ever-present threats and intimidations.

“The United Kingdom has always stood by Israel and its right to live as any nation should be able to do so, in peace and in security.
 “Our commitment to Israel’s security will be unshakable while I am Prime Minister.”

Welcoming Israel's recent peace deals with the UAE and Bahrain, Prime Minister Johnson says: "Despite the challenges of current circumstances it has been extremely encouraging to see the exciting news of the normalisation of relations between Israel and two other great friends of the UK.

“These have been extremely welcome developments, and I hope that others will follow to help secure a more peaceful Middle East".

Hailing the flourishing UK-Israel partnership and his ambition to bolster bilateral ties after Brexit, the Prime Minister writes: "As the UK forges a new role on the global stage outside the EU, I want us to continue to strengthen our bilateral relationship with Israel including in areas such as trade. And we will continue to work side by side with Israel in the fight against coronavirus, as we share information and insights on how to overcome this unprecedented challenge". 

In his letter, Prime Minister Johnson thanks CFI for its work: "CFI plays a vital role in making the case for Israel and in supporting the UK’s relationship with Israel.

"Thank you for all your great work, and for everything that you do for our Party – including all the tremendous support you provided last December to help us win an historic majority in the general election. Your efforts made a real difference in many key marginal seats – and with your ongoing support, our Conservative Government will deliver on the people’s priorities".