WATCH: US Independence Day celebration at MOTJ to highlight US-Israel bond

Originally scheduled for July, the event was postponed following the war with Iran at the end of June. Its revival carried symbolic weight, underscoring that even conflict and rockets cannot shatter ties between Washington and Jerusalem.

Speaking at the event, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said, “The days when terror leaders enjoyed diplomatic immunity are over. Our enemies need to know, from the first days of the founding of the State of Israel, Jewish blood was not spilled in vain. We are in the midst of a campaign, after having dealt blows to every element of this axis of evil."

He continued, “None of the perpetrators of the massacre will be left. We will ensure the security of future generations. Together we will stand, together we will fight and, with God’s help, together we will win.”

The event included a live broadcast under the Jerusalem sky in the museum’s amphitheater.

The cultural highlight came with acclaimed country singer Lee Greenwood, who performed in Israel for the first time. Adding a lighter, unexpected moment, US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee joined philanthropist Paul Singer on stage for a rock music set, accompanied by Nashville musicians.

Huckabee spoke with hope, “The Museum of Tolerance Jerusalem is one of the most incredible places for us to gather, one of the world’s most outstanding tributes to what it means to be human beings.”

The decision to hold the celebration at MOTJ reflected the museum’s growing role as both a cultural landmark and an ideal setting for high-level diplomatic conversations. Nestled in the heart of Jerusalem, the museum provided a fitting backdrop for a night that honored American independence while reaffirming the strong relationship between Washington and Jerusalem.

The event was held with the participation of senior government officials, ministers, members of Knesset, leading business executives, senior American representatives, and other distinguished guests from Israel and around the world.

The Museum of Tolerance Jerusalem is more than a building – it is a world-class institution dedicated to dialogue, mutual respect, and human dignity. It stands as a beacon of hope in the Middle East, shining light across the region as we fight together for democratic values, peace, and tolerance against the hatred and rhetoric that fuel terrible violence.

To date, some 100,000 people have visited the museum and experienced its transformative exhibits and educational programming. Exhibitions include 06:29 – From Darkness to Light, which tells the story of brave women who witnessed the horrors of October 7, and Shadow of Love, photographic testimonies from couples who found love amidst war.

Meanwhile, the MOTJ’s School of Civic Discourse and Leadership Academy has some 17,000 pupils enrolled this year, which will prepare leaders of today and tomorrow to engage in meaningful conversations that foster a more tolerant world.