President Barack Obama. Photo: White House.

JNS.org – President Barack Obama reiterated America’s “unshakeable alliance” with Israel and the need to fight anti-Semitism across the world in his Rosh Hashanah message.

“As Jews across America, Israel, and the world gather together for the High Holidays, Michelle and I extend our warmest wishes to you and your families for a sweet and happy new year,” Obama said in a video message posted on YouTube.

“In synagogues and homes over the coming days, Jews will reflect on a year that carried its shares of challenges. We’ve been reminded many times that our world still needs repair,” said the president.

Speaking about eliminating the “scourge of anti-Semitism” that has increased over the past year, Obama said that for the new Jewish year, the U.S. reaffirms “the friendships and bonds that keep us strong, including our unshakeable alliance with Israel.”

“So let’s approach this new year with new confidence and new hope. Let’s recommit ourselves to living out the values we share as individuals and as a country. Above all, let’s embrace this God-given miracle of renewal, this extraordinary opportunity to begin again in pursuit of justice, prosperity, and peace,” Obama said.