The Knesset has given initial approval to a bill that would change the date on which Independence Day is celebrated. The bill, put forth by MKs Lia Shemtov (Yisrael Beiteinu) and Yoel Hasson (Kadima), would see Independence Day celebrated on Thursday of the week in which the Hebrew date of the 5th of Iyar falls out.

Currently, Independence Day is celebrated on the fifth of Iyar, or on Thursday if the fifth falls out on a Friday or Sabbath.