Israeli President Reuven Rivlin said his country sent prayers to its “brothers and sisters” abroad in a video message to the Jewish diaspora.

He said in the message that was posted with subtitles in both English and Italian: “Now is the time when every country is calling out to its citizens to deal with the dangers together.

“But at this difficult time, we here in Israel think of another ‘together’ that we are part of, and look to you, our brothers and sisters of the global Jewish community. Your welfare and ours are inextricably linked.

“With every update on the spread of the virus that we hear from around the world, we also think of you, our family abroad and pray you are staying strong, united, healthy and well.”

Mr Rivlin continued his message with a discussion on the “Jewish spirit” and values. 

“We, the people that dwells in Zion embrace you and send our prayers for your welfare and your good health,” he said. 

He concluded by wishing the Jewish diaspora: “God bless you and keep you healthy. Be strong and of good courage.” 

On Friday, the Board of Deputies thanked Mr Rivlin “for sharing this message of solidarity with Jewish communities around the world.” 

Earlier in the week the Israeli president met the chairman of the Jewish Agency, Isaac Herzog, to hear updates about the Jewish diaspora. 

Mr Herzog said that the video had “made a huge impression” globally, and that they agreed “on additional initiatives to strengthen the spirit of the Jewish people all around the world at this time.”