‘Maybe the Largest Ever’: Wildfires Disrupt Israeli Independence Day
The battle against what what may be Israel’s largest fire entered its second day on Thursday morning, casting a pall over what would have been a festive Independence Day.
Independence Day
Wildfire Forces First-Ever Cancellation of Israel’s Independence Day Torch-Lighting Ceremony
A large wildfire in the Jerusalem Hills fanned by strong winds and dry conditions forced authorities to cancel for the first time Israel’s traditional Independence Day torch-lighting ceremony. Several communities were evacuated and firefighting crews were deployed to battle the blaze.
‘Up to 24 Alive’: Netanyahu Draws Fire Over Hostage Remarks
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ignited controversy during a Tuesday meeting with torchbearers ahead of Israel’s Independence Day, when he stated that “up to 24” hostages taken by Hamas in Gaza are still alive. The moment became more fraught when a video released by the Prime Minister’s Office picked up on his wife, Sara, whispering “less” under her breath.