Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will not attend the peace summit in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, despite earlier reports that he would join global leaders there today, his office announced Monday.

According to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), Netanyahu declined the invitation because of the Shemini Atzeret–Simchat Torah holiday, which begins tonight. Israeli leaders traditionally refrain from traveling abroad on Jewish holidays or the Sabbath, except in cases of national emergency.

In a statement, Netanyahu expressed gratitude to US President Donald Trump for the invitation and commended his ongoing diplomatic efforts.

“The Prime Minister thanks President Trump for his invitation and for his efforts to expand the circle of peace, peace through strength,” the PMO said.

The statement notably made no mention of Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sissi, who personally extended the invitation to Netanyahu during a phone call earlier today.

The Sharm El-Sheikh summit is expected to bring together regional and international leaders, with discussions focused on consolidating the recent hostage release deal and advancing broader Middle East peace initiatives.

Netanyahu’s decision to remain in Israel comes amid nationwide celebrations over the hostages’ return, and as the country prepares to observe one of Judaism’s most joyous holidays.