Boris Johnson this evening lit a menorah at Downing Street to mark the second night of Chanukah. The Prime Minister was joined at No10 by visiting Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid and Israel’s Ambassador Tzipi Hotovely. 

Also present was the Chief Rabbi of the United Kingdom, Rabbi Eprhaim Mirvis. Mr Lapid also lit the candles. In a statement afterwards, he said: “Prime Minister Johnson’s support for Israel is unequivocal. He is a close and loving friend of ours. 

“The candlelighting was moving. Happy Chanukah to all citizens of Israel and to Jews around the world.” 

Before the festival, Mr Johnson extended his greetings to the Jewish community saying: “A very happy Chanukah to Jewish people in the UK and around the world who will be lighting the menorah this week. Chag Sameach!” 

Earlier today, Mr Lapid and Foreign Secretary Liz Truss signed a new agreement for a Strategic Partnership between Britain and Israel.