During the president’s annual Sukkot visit to Israel’s Chief Rabbi, David Lau told Israel’s President Rivlin

“It is our duty these days to help the Kurdish people as much as possible to prevent its destruction and before it is too late.” according to an official statement.

“Our hearts are now with the Kurdish people who are in danger of mass destruction,” the religious leader said, after pointing out the holiday was “a symbol of unity and peace not only among the people of Israel, but also among the nations of the world.”