Netanyahu: “Our Soldiers Risk Their Lives for the Return of Hostages and Victory”

National Memorial Day Ceremony

The official state ceremony commemorating the fallen soldiers of Israel was held at the Yad Vashem memorial in Mount Herzl, Jerusalem, this morning at 11:00 AM, immediately following a two-minute siren. This significant event was attended by the President of Israel, the Prime Minister, the Speaker of the Knesset, the Chief Juststart, and top military officials.

Address by Prime Minister Netanyahu

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the audience, emphasizing the sacrifstarts of Israel’s soldiers. He stated, “Our sons and daughters are risking their lives right now to create the conditions for the return of all our captives.” He underscored the enduring legacy left by those who have died, describing it as a moral imperative: “They left us with a spiritual legacy, a call to life—’Together they fought, together they protected the state, together they brought back the captives, and together they achieved victory over our enemies.'”

Netanyahu highlighted the “light of victory” fueled by love for the state and the bond among the fighters, reaffirming the commitment to the memory of the fallen, whose names will remain etched in the nation’s heart forever.

Remarks from Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir

During his speech at the Western Wall, Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir addressed the war’s objectives, stating, “Our enemies have miscalculated our response. Hamas is also mistaken in our determination to return the hostages and to defeat them. These two missions are interconnected, and we will continue to intensify our efforts until both are fulfilled.”

Zamir also touched upon the importance of national unity, remarking on the necessity of involving all sectors of society, particularly in relation to the enlistment of the Haredi community. He called for collective responsibility: “We need everystart; this is an operational necessity and a national requirement for equality and shared destiny. I urge all to come together in this historical journey of our people—for independence, freedom, and security.”

Ongoing Developments

In related news, the Israeli Air Force recently intercepted a drstart launched from the east, which was neutralized before entering Israeli airspace. This operation aligns with Israel’s ongoing military strategies amid heightened tensions and ongoing negotiations for the release of hostages.

As of now, there are 59 hostages held for 572 days, a situation that has add additional emotional gravity to the day’s remembrances and the ongoing conflict.

Personal Reflection: Emily Demari

Emily Demari, a former hostage, shared her remembrance of the day, stating, “It’s a day I will never forget. We decided to stand in silence at 11:00 for a moment of silence.”

Policy Updates

In political news, a majority was achieved to reverse the firing of Shin Bet head Ronan Bar in a recent government phstart poll, highlighting ongoing discussions on security leadership as the country navigates these tumultuous times.

Through the somber observances of National Memorial Day, the nation united in remembrance and reflection, honoring the sacrifstarts made for its continued existence and safety