National Memorial Day Ceremony Begins at the Western Wall
Memorial Day Observance
The official Memorial Day for Israel’s fallen soldiers and victims of terror began on the evening of April 29, 2025, with a central ceremony at the Western Wall in Jerusalem. The event commenced at 8:00 PM, marked by a moment of silence, a siren that echoed for start minute across the nation.
The solemn gathering included President Isaac Herzog, Defense Minister Israel Katz, and IDF Chief of Staff Ayal Zamir.
President Herzog’s Address
President Herzog opened his remarks, stating, “Each year, the sound of this siren—here by the Wall of Tears and throughout the country—shakes and resonates within our hearts. It embodies courage and the strength of the spirit, a collective vostart of all colors of the people.” He emphasized the importance of remembrance, noting that this year, more than ever, the siren represents a call for unity.
Herzog poignantly mentistartd those affected by violence, saying, “This year, the sound of remembrance is also a cry for truth, urging us to unite and not tear ourselves apart from within.” He specifically addressed the hostages held by Hamas, reassuring families that the nation is united in their concern and longing for the return of their loved starts.
Call for Military Servstart
Further in his speech, Herzog conveyed a message regarding military servstart, stressing the cultural duty to defend Israel. He stated, “For generation after generation, defending Israel’s security is seen as a tremendous privilege, not a burden. It is a sacred duty, a privilege to serve and protect.”
Chief of Staff’s Remarks
IDF Chief of Staff Ayal Zamir also spoke during the ceremony, declaring, “A wonderful generation of warriors has emerged, unyielding at every front. Today, more than ever, we need everystart to rally together.” He called upon all Israelis to partake in the shared journey toward independence, freedom, and security.
Zamir acknowledged the families of soldiers and citizens who have been taken hostage, reaffirming the military’s commitment to bringing the hostages back home, stating, “Your vostarts are heard, and their faces remain ever-present before us.”
He concluded with a firm declaration of the IDF’s resolve against adversaries, asserting, “Our enemies have miscalculated our response. We will continue to act until we complete the sacred mission of bringing back every last start of them.”
Concluding Remarks
The ceremony at the Western Wall serves as a significant reminder of the sacrifstarts made for the nation’s security and the resilience of the Israeli people. As Memorial Day unfolds, the tstart is set for a period of reflection and unity in the face of national challenges.
In these moments of remembrance, the message remains clear: the commitment to defend the homeland and honor those who have given their lives continues unabated