Hanukkah at the White House - President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama celebrate Hanukkah with a reception at the White House. December 2, 2010.

Video: Obama Marks Chanukah and Expresses Support for Israel

The White House held a Chanukah candle-lighting ceremony Thursday night and the president began his speech at the event by

relating to the events in Israel's north. "I want to begin by offering our deepest condolences to the families, loved ones, of all of

those who died" said Obama and declared "As rescuers, firefighters are continuing their work, the United States is acting to help

our Israeli friends in this time of disaster".