BICOM

Thousands of Israelis took part in celebrations on beaches and national parks on Thursday as Israel marked its 70th Independence Day.

Israel started its Independence Day celebrations on Wednesday evening with fireworks, concerts and parties. The centrepiece of the state ceremony in Jerusalem involved 12 torches (representing the 12 tribes of the people of Israel) lit by Israelis considered to have made outstanding contributions to society.

In a message marking the occasion, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said:  “As I travel around the world meeting other leaders, I am struck by their appreciation and admiration for Israel. They seek Israel’s technology. They seek Israel’s ingenuity. They seek Israel’s genius … We’re just getting started. 70 years is the blink of an eye in historical terms. I have no doubt that 70 years from now, Israel will be even stronger, even more prosperous than it is today.”

Israeli President Reuven Rivlin hosted Prime Minister Netanyahu, Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman, IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot and others for a musical ceremony honouring more than 100 soldiers who were given commendations for excellence.

“It is no secret that during these celebratory moments IDF soldiers and security forces are on high alert,” said Rivlin, addressing tensions on the northern border and along the Gaza Strip. “It is no secret that we are facing Iranian attempts to directly harm the State of Israel. Dear soldiers, we see the burden of responsibility placed on your young shoulders. Thank you.”

According to the Israeli Parks Authority, 200,000 Israelis visited nature reserves and national parks across the country. The annual military flyover and naval parade passed over 40 Israeli cities from Kiryat Shmona in the north to Eilat in the south and featured a wide range of aircraft – including Israel’s fleet of F-35 fighter jets, considered to be the most advanced plane in the world. An RAF transport plane took part in the flypast as did aircraft from Canada, Austria, Poland and Greece.

UK Prime Minister Theresa May tweeted: “Best wishes to those celebrating the 70th Anniversary of the State of Israel. Israel is a close friend and partner of the UK and we fully support Israel as a Jewish Homeland. We look forward to continuing cooperation between our two countries.”

US President Donald Trump said on Twitter: “Best wishes to Prime Minister @Netanyahu and all of the people of Israel on the 70th Anniversary of your Great Independence. We have no better friends anywhere. Looking forward to moving our Embassy to Jerusalem next month!”