King Charles receives Chief Rabbi for private audience in wake of attacks on Israel
King Charles and Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis in Buckingham Palace
PA
King Charles welcomed the Chief Rabbi for an audience at Buckingham Palace today, in the wake of the attacks on Israel by the terrorist organisation Hamas which began on Saturday.
Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis is an Orthodox rabbi, who serves as the Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth.
His Majesty is said to have expressed deep emotions for the British Jewish community during the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
It is understood the two spoke of the horrors of recent events in Israel, and on ways to support interfaith harmony in Britain during such distressing times.
King Charles condemned Hamas in a statement on Wednesday
PA
King Charles, 74, has long been a supporter of all the different faith groups in the UK.
He frequently embraces the diverse religious landscape in Britain, as evidenced by his Coronation in May where different faith leaders played a role in the ceremony, which broke with royal tradition.
The King and the Chief Rabbi additionally discussed their continued hope of international peace - particularly between Israel and Palestine.
On Wednesday, the monarch released a powerful statement regarding the Israel-Hamas War.
Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis at the Coronation
PA
He said: "This is a situation His Majesty is extremely concerned about, and he has asked to be kept actively updated.
"His thoughts and prayers are with all of those suffering, particularly those who have lost loved ones, but also those actively involved.
"His Majesty is appalled by and condemns the barbaric acts of terrorism in Israel."
The British government have also expressed strong solidarity with Israel, as Rishi Sunak visited Finchley United Synagogue in central London on Monday.
Israeli soldiers drive in a tank by Israel's border
Reuters
LATEST ROYAL NEWS:
Smoke rises following Israeli strikes in Gaza
Reuters
The Prime Minister told the attendees: “I am unequivocal.
“There are not two sides to these events.
"There is no question of balance. I stand with Israel. We stand with Israel.
"The United Kingdom stands with Israel."
You may like
