Story perspectives

Former Hostage Speaks as Israel Celebrates 78th Independence Day

4/25/2026

Center

Avinathan Or Addresses Independence

Former hostage Avinathan Or addressed thousands gathered at Tel Aviv’s Habima Square during the public Independence Day celebrations.
Israel marked its 78th Independence Day on April 22-23 2026 with no hostages remaining in Gaza.
Around 2,000 English-speaking attendees joined an Orthodox Union ceremony at Jerusalem’s Ramada Hotel.
Rabbis Avi Berman, Sam Shore, Stuart Hershkowitz and Deputy Mayor Arieh King were present.

Right

Milei Lights Torch

Argentine President Javier Milei was the first leader to light a torch at Israel’s Independence Day ceremony, marking Isaac Accords.
Israel marked its 78th Independence Day on April 22 2026, noting that no hostages remain in Gaza for the first time since 2014.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized resilience at the “Forces of Renewal” ceremony.
Rabbi-led Tzohar prayer was issued, and twelve torch-lighters from diverse sectors highlighted Israel’s multicultural sacrifices.

History

Historical Context

In 1976 Israel carried out Operation Entebbe, a raid on Entebbe Airport that rescued 102 hostages while commander Yonatan Netanyahu was killed. Decades after the 1976 raid, Israel’s Independence Day ceremonies recalled the Entebbe rescue as a symbol of the nation’s counter-terrorism resolve and its willingness to act firmly abroad.

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Avinathan Or Addresses Independence

Former hostage Avinathan Or addressed thousands gathered at Tel Aviv’s Habima Square during the public Independence Day celebrations.
Israel marked its 78th Independence Day on April 22-23 2026 with no hostages remaining in Gaza.
Around 2,000 English-speaking attendees joined an Orthodox Union ceremony at Jerusalem’s Ramada Hotel.
Rabbis Avi Berman, Sam Shore, Stuart Hershkowitz and Deputy Mayor Arieh King were present.

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