Seventy-eight years ago, David Ben-Gurion declared Israeli independence—and the fledgling Jewish state went on to repel invading Arab armies and cement itself as a dominant power in the Middle East.
Ambassador Mike Huckabee marked Israel's 78th Independence Day by celebrating the unbreakable U.S.-Israel alliance—rooted in shared Judeo-Christian values.
Former hostage Alon Ohel performed at a ceremony honoring outstanding IDF soldiers as part of Israel's 78th Independence Day celebrations, where the soldiers were recognized for their heroic service.
Independence Day kicked off at Mount Herzl with ceremonies honoring Israeli heroes and allies—including Argentinian President Javier Milei—alongside songs and performances by top Israeli artists.
Among the key announcements was the launch of a direct flight route between Tel Aviv and Buenos Aires on El Al, expected to begin operating later this year.
An IDF lone soldier from Odessa, Ukraine, who hadn’t seen her family in two years, received the surprise of a lifetime when her family secretly flew in to celebrate Independence Day with her.
Emily Damari, another former hostage who lost two fingers when shot during her kidnapping from Kibbutz Kfar Aza, addressed friends still held captive, saying 'We will yet see rosy sunsets together.'
Other individuals tapped for the torch-lighting ceremony include 28-year-old Emily Damari, a former Gaza hostage who was abducted from Kibbutz Kfar Azza on October 7, 2023.
Despite ongoing conflict, Israel forges ahead with its Independence Day celebrations, adapting traditions to honor heroes and maintain national spirit.
The main event every year is a torch lighting which typically takes place at Mount Herzl, this year, however, there will be multiple, with simultaneous lighting at 12 sites attacked by Hamas.
Following is President Isaac Herzog’s speech at the ceremony saluting 120 outstanding soldiers in honor of Israel’s 75th Independence Day at the President’s Residence.
Each year, Israel observes two somber days of remembrance within a week, followed by Independence Day celebrations throughout the country. The connection is profound.
This year on Israel's Independence Day, soldiers will march in precision formation in the shape of a medical syringe giving two coronavirus vaccinations.
Magen David Adom paramedics recovered from coronavirus and have now donated their blood plasma; 16-year-old girl wins annual youth Bible contest; and much more!
Israel is winning the war against the coronavirus and its scaled back Independence Day celebrations helped prevent a flare up in contagion as the country prepares to reopen.
'Dr. Zarka’s spirit of dedication upholds the values of the Declaration of Independence...expresses the brotherly alliance between us and the Druze community.'
Many Israelis have suffered profound loss but nonetheless continue to do good during their lives, said the mother of teenage terror victim Naftali Fraenkel.
The Ministry of Culture and Sport is gearing up for a spectacular celebration of Israel's 70th anniversary based on the themes of heritage and innovation.