Israel will hold its official state ceremony honoring the country’s fallen soldiers and victims of acts of terrorism on Wednesday, April 30, at 11 a.m., at the Mount Herzl Memorial Hall in Jerusalem. Ynetnews will broadcast the ceremony live with English overdubbing.
The event, a central part of Memorial Day commemorations, will be attended by President Isaac Herzog, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana, Supreme Court President Yitzhak Amit and Defense Minister Israel Katz, along with senior military and security officials.
(Photo: REUTERS/Ronen Zvulun)
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The ceremony, held at the national military cemetery, marks the beginning of nationwide observances for the soldiers and security forces who fell defending the state. This year’s ceremony takes place as fighting continues in Gaza and 59 hostages remain in captivity.
Mount Herzl
(Photo: REUTERS/Ronen Zvulun)
The Israeli flag with the symbol of the hostages
(Photo: Jack GUEZ / AFP)
Mount Herzl Military Cemetery
(Photo: Defense Ministry)
Later in the evening, at 7:45 p.m., the traditional torch-lighting ceremony at Mount Herzl will officially close Memorial Day and usher in Israel’s 77th Independence Day celebrations. Ynetnews will also broadcast the torch-lighting ceremony live with English overdubbing.
Amid a challenging security reality and a prolonged struggle since the October 7 attacks, Israel this year marks its Independence Day for the second consecutive time with a heart both proud and pained.
IDF preparations for last year's torch-lighting ceremony
(Photo: IDF Spokesperson's Unit)
Independence Day torch-lighting ceremonies from previous years
(Photo: Shalev Shalom)
The celebrations will be held under the banner of hope and renewal, even as many hostages remain captive in Gaza.
Among those honored to light the torches this year are survivors who emerged from the shadows of captivity, bereaved parents who carry the memory of their loved ones with dignity, tireless volunteers who continue to support Israel’s soldiers and displaced families, and outstanding musicians and athletes whose achievements have brought honor and inspiration to Israel both nationally and internationally.
Among this year's torch-lighters are Eli Sharabi, an Israeli hero who returned from captivity after 491 harrowing days in Gaza, where he lost his family. Since his return, he has devoted himself tirelessly to the cause of bringing all the remaining hostages home.
Eli Sharabi and his brother Sharon participating in the March of the Living in Poland last week
(Photo: Ziv Koren)
Emily Damari and Eli Sharabi
(Photo: Oz Moalem, Michael M. Santiago / Getty Images North America / AFP )
Emily Damari, a young survivor from Kibbutz Kfar Aza, was kidnapped and severely injured during the October 7 attack. Upon her return, she became a symbol of feminine strength and the enduring hope of the Israeli spirit.
Oren Smadja
(Photo: Gil Nechushtan)
Oren Smadja, an Olympic champion and the coach of Israel’s national judo team, lost his son Omri in the fighting in Gaza. Despite his profound loss, he continued to lead his athletes to inspiring achievements on the world stage.
Deni Avdija, the Israeli NBA star, has become a role model for youth, excelling overseas while staying deeply connected to his Israeli identity and values.
Dana International
(Photo: Ron Kedmi)
Dana International, a global trailblazer and Eurovision winner, stands as a symbol of tolerance and acceptance, inspiring generations through her lifelong advocacy for equality.
Zehava Ben, one of the iconic voices of Israeli music, brought Mizrahi culture into the heart of the national mainstream, blending rich tradition with innovation.
Zehava Ben and Micha Shitrit
(Photo: Eran Levi, Tal Shahar)
Micha Shitrit, a distinguished figure in Israeli music and culture, has built bridges between communities and generations through his artistic work and his ongoing social involvement.
Omri Casspi, the first Israeli to play in the NBA, continues to inspire as a global ambassador for Israel, both through his athletic achievements and his public advocacy.
Rachel Edri, a resident of Ofakim, became a symbol of extraordinary courage and resilience thanks to her remarkable resourcefulness in surviving the terror attack of October 7.
Rachel Edri
(Photo: Hertzel Yosef)
Ben Shapiro
(Photo: Leah Hogsten, AP)
Ben Carasso
(Photo: PR)
Ben Shapiro, one of America's most influential commentators, has placed his public platform in firm support of Israel and its right to defend itself.
Ben Carasso, just ten years old, became the young voice of Israel’s story to the world, sharing with honesty and hope the experiences of Israeli children living through war.