Français
Español
English
Portuguese
“This is another battle,” Spitz said. “And in it too, we have no choice but to win.”
By United with Israel Staff
As Israel marked the start of its 78th Independence Day, a powerful moment at the torch-lighting ceremony captured the spirit of resilience and sacrifice that has defined the nation since its founding. That moment came when Ari Spitz, a severely wounded combat soldier, took the stage.
Spitz, a Givati Brigade fighter, was critically wounded during combat operations in Gaza when a building exploded while he and his unit were inside. The blast killed two of his commanders and left multiple soldiers wounded. Spitz himself was initially feared dead. He later awoke after six weeks in a coma to discover he had lost both legs and one hand, becoming one of the most severely injured soldiers of the war.
Yet his appearance at the ceremony was not defined by loss, but by strength.
“I light this torch in memory of all the soldiers who fell for our existence and our future,” Spitz declared, his voice steady, “and in honor of the tens of thousands of wounded, in body and soul, who are fighting the long and complex battle of returning to life.”
Calling rehabilitation “another war,” Spitz made clear that the struggle does not end on the battlefield. “This is another battle,” he said. “And in it too, we have no choice but to win.”
His words struck a deep chord as he paid tribute not only to fallen comrades, but to the families who stand beside the wounded, and to the medical teams working tirelessly behind the scenes.
“In honor of my beloved family and all the families of the wounded, who stand by their loved ones and bring light even in the darkest moments,” he said. “In honor of the medical teams, the hospitals, the rehabilitation centers… who work day and night to save lives.”
Spitz also spoke of the values that shaped him, highlighting the connection between faith, service, and national purpose. “To the yeshivot where I grew up,” he said, “which prove that Torah and meaningful military service are two pillars that complete one another.”
Closing his remarks, Spitz framed his personal journey within a broader national story.
“It is an honor to be part of the great Jewish and Zionist mission in history,” he said, “for the glory of the State of Israel.”
In a ceremony meant to celebrate independence, Spitz’s words served as a reminder of the price paid to secure it—and the enduring spirit that continues to carry the country forward.
Do You Love Israel? Make a Donation - Show Your Support!
Donate to vital charities that help protect Israeli citizens and inspire millions around the world to support Israel too!
Now more than ever, Israel needs your help to fight and win the war -- including on the battlefield of public opinion.
Antisemitism, anti-Israel bias and boycotts are out of control. Israel's enemies are inciting terror and violence against innocent Israelis and Jews around the world. Help us fight back!
