Israel Independence Day 2023: Date, History, Facts about Israel

David ben Gurion officially proclaimed Israel's independence on May 14, 1948, when he read the Proclamation of the Establishment of the State of Israel.

Israel’s Independence Day is traditionally observed on the fifth day of the Hebrew month of Iyar, which occurs between late April and early May. This year, the holiday will be observed on April 25 and 26. This holiday, also known as ‘Yom Ha’atzma’ut,’ commemorates the proclamation of Israeli independence eight hours before the end of the British Mandate of Palestine. The day’s festivities are always preceded by ‘Yom Hazikaron,’ the Israelis’ day of remembrance for the combatants who fought for their nation’s independence. The holiday is celebrated with extravagant gatherings of family and friends, pyrotechnics, concerts, barbecues, and picnics.

The background of Israel Independence Day

David ben Gurion officially proclaimed Israel’s independence on May 14, 1948, when he read the Proclamation of the Establishment of the State of Israel. The establishment of Israel also signified the end of British dominion and the liberation of its citizens. The 5th of Iyar is now a’state holiday’ in honour of Independence Day.

The holiday is observed with fireworks and military parades, and the Israeli president typically organises a reception for distinguished soldiers. On the eve of Independence Day, a significant State Ceremony is held. The ceremony takes place on Mount Herzl and consists of performances, addresses, and the lighting of twelve torches. The torches serve a historical purpose and represent Israel’s twelve tribes.

Every year, this day is celebrated with great pomp and circumstance because the people of Israel endured unimaginable hardships before returning to their homeland. They were exiled from their homeland for 2,000 years and endured numerous religious persecutions, including the Holocaust in Germany, which killed nearly a third of the world’s Jews; consequently, in 1950, Israel’s Chief Rabbinate recommended that the occasion be designated as an official Jewish holiday. In addition, he insisted that the Jewish supplication Hallel be performed on the day. In 1973, Israeli Chief Rabbi Shlomo Goren added a citation of blessings over Hallel to the custom.

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