Independence Day celebrations begin
Following torch-lighting ceremony, PM tells listeners that unity is the key to independence: 'I ask you, precious soldiers, to protect yourselves.'
Independence Day celebrations began on Wednesday night with the traditional torch-lighting ceremony on Mount Herzl in Jerusalem.
The theme of this year's ceremony is "civilian bravery" and torches were lit by Rona Ramon, Herzl Biton, Gabi Barshishat, Avi Toibin, Dr. Anan Falah, Nili and Moshe Levy, Hillel Bareli, Rotem Elisha, Fainy Sukenik, Yaakov Ehrenfeld, Father Gabriel Naddaf, IDF representative Sgt. Roberto Farah-Usa and Border Police representative Staff Sgt. Alison Berson.
Before the celebrations commenced, Prime Minister Netanyahu delivered a video message in which he stressed the importance of unity. “Many challenges stand before us but I am certain that we can overcome them with unity and with hope,” he said.
Before the celebrations commenced, Prime Minister Netanyahu delivered a video message in which he stressed the importance of unity. “Many challenges stand before us but I am certain that we can overcome them with unity and with hope,” he said.
“The primary condition for independence is the will to protect, but the painful price is that of our fallen children and brothers, to whom we are infinitely indebted. We know that there is no existence without protective strength, there is no independence without strength. That is why we all salute you, our precious soldiers, our policemen, our women and men of the security forces. You guard the state and I ask you to protect yourselves. In the name of the entire nation, thank you," he continued.
“World leaders visit here in Jerusalem every day. They say to me in excitement 'What a wonderful country you have, a vibrant state, creative in spirit and in substance. They see the roads, the buildings, the technology, the economy, the people and their abilities. Above and beyond all, they see you, the Israeli people, your talent and creativity, mutual reliance and solidarity in troubled times,” said Netanyahu.
