Yom Haatzmaut

Confession:

I am one of the 'idiots' who say Hallel on Yom Ha'atzmaut

To recite the Hallel prayer of thanksgiving or not to recite it, that is NOT the question.

The Parsha and Current Events:

Thoughts after Yom Ha'atzma'ut

During WWII, we begged the major ally nations to use their air forces to bomb the concentration camps, today the world is holding its breath and counting the minutes until our Israeli Air Force bombs the Iranians after it has already bombed the Houthis!

Yom ha-Atzma’ut and Tazria-Metzora:

“From where will come my help?” (Psalms 121:1)

In a panic the Arameans fled, as we read in this Shabbat's haftarah - and the Arabs did the same in the War of Independence, linking the two.

Yom Ha'atzmaut

Step by step the words of the Prophets become reality

As we set out to celebrate seventy-seven years of the State of Israel, we must ponder and observe with our own eyes the reality in which we live, through the vision of the Prophets of Israel and the vision of Ezekiel specifically.

Yom Ha'atzmaut 2025:

From Strength to Strength on Israel’s “Oz” birthday

Hashem intends for us to fight for ourselves and strengthens our efforts, but only if we recognize that our strength comes from Him.

"La-zeman Hazeh":

Celebrating Independence Day is a Torah requirement

In recent years, some people have begun to have doubts about the celebration of Yom Haatzmaut, asking such questions as "What is the point of this joy?!" This question is asked in pain, in view of the difficult reality, where we often act in a way that erodes and damages our independence. Should we really continue to celebrate Yom Haatzmaut?

Yom Ha'atzmaut:

Rav Kook and Zionism

Israel's first Chief Rabbi appreciated secular Jews for playing a crucial part in returning to the land, but believed that the nation’s complete renewal will only come about when Zionism is restored to its original holiness.

They tried to burn our joy — but we still have a country

You can cancel the concerts. You can smother the fireworks. But you will never cancel Israel. Not the land. Not the people. Not the dream we’ve rebuilt.

Watch live:

OU Israel's Annual Musical Tefila with Rabbi Shlomo Katz

OU Israel's Annual Musical Tefila with Rabbi Shlomo Katz at Ramada Jerusalem Hotel

From Grief to Glory: The Sacred Rhythm of the Jewish People

In Israel fallen soldiers aren’t distant names etched on stone. They are classmates. Cousins. Neighbors. They are our kids’ friends. Our friends’ kids. No one is untouched. The silence of Yom HaZikaron is not symbolic—it is personal. It’s raw. It hurts.

IDU holds special exhibition for Gush Etzion on Yom Ha'atzmaut

Israel Dog Unit joins a display of other security forces and demonstrated their working dogs' various capabilities for the crowd.

Israel's 1st Chief Rabbi:

Yom Haatzma'ut: From Tragedy to Triumph

Rabbi Kook, founder of Religious Zionism: Anyone who has followed the development of the Jewish community in Eretz Yisrael from its inception can readily see how, from every reversal, a new triumph emerged.

How can we celebrate Yom Ha'atzmaut this year?

This year, I don't need fighter jets to do shows and fly-overs. This year, we can look within and see the bravery and heroism in the heart of each and every one of us.

Herzog:

'We continue to fight for what matters - a free, secure Israel'

President Isaac Herzog sends a message to the Jewish communities of the world of unity and mutual responsibility, and his hope for the swift return of the hostages and of peace.

Gaza region paramedic to light Yom Ha'atzmaut torch

MDA Paramedic Oshrit Hadad, 22 years old from Netivot, will represent the organization by lighting a torch on Yom Ha'atzmaut.

Holon:

Mayor clashes with mother of hostage over Yom Haatzmaut parties

Holon Municipality decided to hold the Yom Haatzmaut celebrations in the city almost without changes, despite the anguish of the family of hostage Agam Berger.

Help mark Shabbat Tkumah

This Shabbat, the time between Yom Hashoa (Israel’s Holocaust Remembrance Day) this week, and Yom Hazikaron (Memorial Day for IDF soldiers and terror victims), followed immediately by Yom Haatzmaut (Independence Day) next week, says everything about the Jewish People.

Religious Zionist rabbis:

'Keep rejoicing on Independence Day'

Leading Zionist rabbis are calling on the public to continue rejoicing and thanking G-d on Israeli Independence Day, despite the hardships.

Israeli singer turns down offer to light Independence Day torch

Popular Israeli singer, Idan Amedi, posted on his Instagram page that he prefers to light a torch in the future for words of a song that he will write and not for his heroism: "Unfortunately, I will not be able to accept the honor this year."

Be happy this Yom Ha'atzmaut? Certainly

Hallel with a Blessing on Yom Ha’atzmaut

It is a Torah-based mitzvah to celebrate days of salvation when Israel is saved from death,and so it is with Yom Ha'atzmaut .

The message of Nachshon, the hero of the Red Sea crossing

From Shvi'i shel Pesach to Yom Ha'atzmaut to Shavuot, there is a theme for us to emulate as we leave the Pesach season: Nachshon's faith.

Op-ed: From Jabotinsky through to Netanyahu

Benjamin Netanyahu shares the same hatred bestowed on Menachem Begin. Op-ed.

Tu B'shvat and The Song of the Sea

Tu B'Shvat: fruits vs. vegetables .Shirat Hayam (The Song of the Sea) as the basis for saying Hallel on Yom Ha'atzmaut and Jerusalem Day. .

Op-ed:

Beyond the euphoria of Yom Ha’atzmaut is political chaos

We bask in its astonishing achievements but if a person wanted to destroy the Jewish state, there are several steps that he could take.Op-ed

Parashat Emor (Israel) and Yom Ha'atzmaut

Perhaps it is not coincidence that Parashat Emor almost always falls in the 23-day period between Yom Ha'atzmaut and Yom Herut Yerushalayim.

Rav Kook on Yom Ha'atzmaut: The drama of the Balfour Declaration

Rav Kook, in England, fought the letter written by Jewish leaders against a Jewish state - and won.

Chosen People/ Chosen Land

It’s amazing that even now, Yom Ha’atzmaut 2022, the State of Israel faces a world that denies its legitimacy and sovereignty. Op-ed.

Video: Reflections on the Anniversary of the Jewish State -1858

"There is no question that the State of Israel is a miracle and although it is ours by way of suffering, 'with your blood you shall live!'"

Yom Ha'atzmaut: Is there a halakhic basis for a new holiday?

There is no rational explanation for this country's victory in 1948 and its success. We thank Hashem for it, but a new holiday? and Hallel?

Tefila B'Tachana - Annual Musical Tefila for Yom HaAtzmaut

Tefila B'Tachana- Annual Musical Tefila for Yom HaAtzmaut held at Jerusalem's First Station.

The healing powers of the month of Iyar

Iyar is the month when we shake off the dust and rise to greatness! Chodesh Tov!!

'Uplifting':

Murdered rabbi's daughter to be honored on Independence Day

The daughter of the slain rabbi who was seriously injured herself, selected to receive a medal for 'exemplary military service.'

Why I love the far-from-perfect Israel

Are things perfect in the 73-year-old modern state of Israel? Absolutely not. Are your kids perfect? Don't you love them anyway. Op-ed.

'Blessed to have the chance to live our history'

As an olah, although of over 50 years standing, this is a time when I recollect my own Zionist journey, from Baltimore to Yerushalayim.

Mazel tov Am Yisrael on the 72nd year of the Jewish State!

This year it's "Home Haatzma'ut"

Poll: Majority of Israeli Jews, Arabs view Israel favorably

Ahead of Israel's 72nd Independence Day, more than half of the state's Arab residents said they

After 71 years, Israel is like the bougainvillea in my garden

A crazy Israeli dream come true whose logo is a flying camel

Critically-wounded soldier who returned to service to bear torch

Col. Shai Siman Tov to bear torch as IDF rep during ceremony for Israel's 71st Independence Day.

The 3 mothers:

'We light this torch for the unity of the Jewish people'

The mothers of the 3 boys murdered in 2014 Hamas kidnapping share their feelings at being chosen to light Independence Day torch.

My Yom Ha'atzmaut shtreimel

The State of Israel is Holy

It's all about your vision: Israel at 70

Thank G-d for Israel: The Diaspora torch

Dear haredi Jew

Watch: 'What makes us drop everything and come defend Israel?'

Director-General of PM's Office shares special personal experience from 2006 Lebanon War during address marking Israel's Independence Day.

Who will light 'the torch of the Jewish people'?

For the first time, the torch at the Independence Day ceremony in Jerusalem is to be lit by a Jew who is not an Israeli. Recommendations?

Samaria Wants IDF Flyover Too, Says Council Deputy

Samaria Council official Yossi Dagan appealed for help – in giving residents of Samaria the same Independence Day “treat” others enjoy.

Obama: 'The US-Israel Relationship Has Never Been Stronger'

US President wishes Israel a happy Independence Day, commits to working toward a two-state solution.

Live: From Auschwitz to the Western Wall

In Independence Day march, a new Torah scroll will be dedicated by the March of the Living program.

Video: Celebrating Independence with IDF's Finest

Excellent Soldiers' awards and Singing Independence, aired live from the President's Residence in Jerusalem.

'Israel's Mission: Tikkun Olam - Make the World a Better Place'

Minister releases heartfelt, if quirky, address for Independence Day - bridging ancient heritage and modern marvels.

'Thank You For Supporting the One and Only Jewish State'

Prime Minister's address focuses on Israel's achievements in 66 years of independence, stresses role of worldwide support.

Celebrating Yom Haatzmaut: Barbecue to Beit Medrash

New York Kicks Off Israel 66th Birthday Bash

New Yorkers celebrate the rich and complex culture, history, and people of Israel.

Rabbis: Keep Eyal Golan Out of Beit Shemesh

A group of rabbis in Beit Shemesh slammed the municipality for hiring singer Eyal Golan to perform on Israel Independence Day

Jewish Home in Urgent Session over Galilee Arab Violence

Showdown with Arab nationalists expected at Lavie Forest, next to Golani Junction, on Independence Day.

Poll: 20% of Israelis Feel More 'Jewish' Than 'Israeli'

Most Israelis feel more or equally 'Jewish' as they do 'Israeli,' poll reveals. But will they in the future?