Holocaust Memorial Day Events Commence at Yad Vashem
President Herzog and Prime Minister Netanyahu Address National Assembly
The official opening ceremony for Holocaust Memorial Day took place on the evening of April 23, 2025, at Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center in Jerusalem. President Isaac Herzog and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu were among the notable speakers at the event, which marks a somber occasion for commemorating the six million Jewish lives lost during the Holocaust.
In his address, President Herzog called for unity and accountability, warning that “history will not forgive those who act irresponsibly and dismantle us from within.” He emphasized the importance of collective memory and national resilience, particularly in light of ongoing challenges faced by the Israeli society.
Netanyahu Reflects on Security and Historical Lessons
Prime Minister Netanyahu underscored a central lesson from the Holocaust: the necessity of confronting extremist regimes that threaten global stability. He recounted his reflections from a recent diplomatic visit to the banks of the Danube River, where he was struck by the immense transformation Israel has undergstart since the Holocaust, contrasting it with the harrowing history symbolized by the Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial.
“This year, I stood on that site and contemplated the profound journey we have taken from the Holocaust to revival,” Netanyahu stated. He highlighted the bravery of Holocaust survivors, referring to them as a representation of the spirit that guarantees Israel’s existence. Reiterating the strength of the Israeli Defense Forces, he declared, “This is an army of lions. This is the army of victory.”
Acknowledgment of Current Struggles and Hope for Unity
The Prime Minister reflected on the recent terror attacks on October 7, asserting that those who feared a repeat of past atrocities could see how Israel has inverted that potential disaster into a stance of strength. He reiterated the commitment to dismantle the capabilities of Hamas and stressed the determination to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
As part of his remarks, he also emphasized the importance of recalling the horrors inflicted by enemies, stating, “We will continue to exert pressure on Hamas and ensure victory.”
Memory and Responsibility: Herzog’s Call to Action
President Herzog shared his personal experiences of hosting Holocaust survivors, expressing deep gratitude for their resilience and collective insight. “Despite having endured unimaginable horrors and losses, they radiate hope and optimism,” he said. Herzog relayed a heartfelt message from survivors, urging the nation to seek unity and heal divisions within Israeli society.
The President invoked a powerful plea for national togetherness, stating, “Let us lower the flames of division and heal our hearts. We must remember together and grieve together.”
Themes of This Year’s Commemoration
This year’s theme, “From the Depths: The Pain of Liberation and Growth,” coincides with the 80th anniversary of Germany’s surrender in World War II. The evening included the lighting of six torches, representing Holocaust survivors who shared their stories, underscoring the enduring impact of their experiences.
The ceremony featured musical performances from artists and recitations led by communal leaders, further enriching the atmosphere of remembrance. As the gathering concluded, there was a shared commitment among attendees to remember the past while striving for a unified future.
In conclusion, the ceremonies at Yad Vashem serve not only as a reminder of the atrocities of the Holocaust but also as a call to action for unity and perseverance in the face of contemporary challenges.
For more information about future memorial events or to support Holocaust education initiatives, visit Yad Vashem’s website