What it is about:

The paramount urgency of rescuing the hostages taken from Israel to Gaza on October 7 was the central focus of discussions as President Isaac Herzog met Serbian President Aleksander Vucic upon his arrival in Belgrade.

Why it matters:

The liberation of Israeli citizens is a top priority for Israel, highlighting Serbia’s solidarity and the international support against terror activities. This meeting underscores the importance of international cooperation in addressing issues of kidnappings and antisemitism.

Herzog Meets with Vucic

President Herzog was accompanied by Idit Ohel, whose son Alon is among the victims held captive in Gaza. Ohel, of Serbian descent, stood by the two leaders, holding a photograph of her son following their poignant meeting.

Herzog shared Alon’s story, highlighting his talents as a musician and the devastating transformation of the Nova Music Festival from a joyful event into a tragic incident due to the attack.

President Vucic expressed deep emotional support and condemned the hostage-taking.

Addressing Rising Antisemitism

Both presidents also discussed the disturbing surge of antisemitism across Europe, a matter that President Vucic explicitly denounced as reprehensible.

Herzog Comments on Helicopter Tragedy

In his address, Herzog expressed gratitude for the Serbian hospitality and acknowledged the pain caused by a devastating helicopter crash in Gaza earlier in the day, which took the lives of two Israeli rescuers and injured seven others while on a mission to bring an injured soldier to safety.

Herzog referred to the day as particularly painful for Israelis and condemned a terrorist attack near Beit El in the West Bank as a “horrific criminal act.”

What’s next:

President Herzog is scheduled to continue his diplomatic journey, moving on from Serbia to Albania.

This story was first published on jpost.com.