Independence Day

Two human rights groups recognize global significance of Israel’s Declaration of Independence 

Recognition comes amid rising attacks on Zionism since October 7 and ahead of Israel’s Independence Day 

Ambassador Oren Rozenblat receives the recognition from Dr. Luis Andrade.
Hana Laszlo walks the red carpet ahead of a movie showing at the 77th Venice Film Festival, September 2020; illustrative.

'Very difficult for me': Actress Hana Laszlo decides to not carry Independence Day torch

Argentinian President Javier Milei and Israeli President Isaac Herzog tour in Kibbutz Nir Oz, southern Israel, February 8, 2024.

President Herzog to award Argentina's Javier Milei with Presidential Medal of Honor

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Gal Hirsch, Coordinator for the Hostages and the Missing in the Prime Minister's Office hold a press conferene at the Prime Minister's office in Jerursalem, January 27, 2026.

Gal Hirsch faces backlash over Independence Day torch-lighting amid tax fraud trial


The Israeli barbecue has changed the rules of the game

If in the past the barbecue was the traditional event where all eyes were focused on the meat and the grill, this year it is a new and refreshing hosting experience - especially in the design aspect.

 Smokeless electric grill by the NORMANDE electrical brand for NIS 399, available on the brand's website, in chains, and in select stores

Independence Day 2025: 77+1 reasons I love Israel - opinion

Ahead of Israel's Independence Day, Barbara Sofer presents her annual list of things she loves about the Jewish state.

 Israel's representative to the Eurovision Song Contest, Yuval Raphael, a survivor of the deadly October 7 2023 attack by Hamas on the Nova festival in Israel's south, sings on a stage in this handout photo obtained by Reuters on January 23, 2025.

Israel Independence Day 2025: 77 reasons life is better in the Jewish state - opinion

As the Jewish state turns 77 on Independence Day, olim from across the country give 77 reasons why life in Israel is better.

 An illustrative image of French olim (new immigrants) arriving in Israel.

Independence Day 2025: The top Israeli beers for your barbecue

Certain beers go better with certain foods – even at a barbecue. Here's what Israeli beers you should drink this Independence Day.

 An illustrative image of Israelis gathering around a grill for an Independence Day barbecue.

In the Kitchen with Henny: Shuk-style celebration

For this year’s Independence Day celebration, I’ve put together a menu that highlights Israel’s best-loved foods.

 An illustrative image of falafel balls.

Independence Day flotilla: A tribute to the Navy, hostages, wounded soldiers, and their families

There will be a special initiative this year to include the families of soldiers who have been wounded in the war.

 National Flotilla on Independence Day

Families call to remember Hamas hostages on Independence Day, adjust celebrations

"There is no true independence when 59 of us are in Gaza. There is no victory when 59 are still in captivity."

 Yotam Cohen, whose brother Nimrod is still held in Gaza

Mossad agents behind Hezbollah beeper operation to light torch in Independence Day ceremony

The three operatives, though anonymous, will go down in history for their operational achievements.

 Different types of pagers. Still used in areas without reception.

IDF soldier seriously wounded in Gaza to light torch on Independence Day ceremony

Medan lost both his legs in an explosion in the northern Gaza Strip, which killed four IDF reservists. 

A TORCH burns on Jerusalem’s Mount Herzl.

Haim Taib to light torch on Independence Day for promoting unity and resilience

"Lighting the torch is a full-circle moment for me and my family – both personally and nationally – and a symbol of my commitment to strengthening the resilience of the State of Israel."

 Haim Taib, President and Founder of Mitrelli Group and Menomadin Foundation.