President Herzog Marks Israel’s 78th Independence Day with Ceremony for Outstanding IDF Soldiers

On April 22, 2026, President Isaac Herzog marked Israel’s 78th Independence Day with a ceremony at the President’s Residence in Jerusalem honoring 120 outstanding soldiers from across the Israel Defense Forces. The ceremony began with a flyover by the Israeli Air Force in salute to the outstanding soldiers. A highlight of the ceremony came when former hostage Alon Ohel and Dvir Bublil, a soldier injured in battle on October 7th, performed together on stage in honor of the outstanding soldiers.

President Herzog warmly welcomed former hostages who survived Hamas captivity: “I am so moved to see at this ceremony the hostage survivors who have returned to us: Gadi Mozes, Mia Leimberg, Fernando Simon Marman, and Alon Ohel. A year ago we prayed and hoped, and thank God we no longer have hostages anywhere. You simply fill our hearts with joy.”

To the 120 outstanding soldiers, President Herzog said: “It is truly remarkable what you have been through over the past two and a half years. We all grew up on stories of heroism, but this generation surpasses them all.”

On behalf of the nation of Israel, President Herzog thanked the IDF Chief of the General Staff, LTG Eyal Zamir, and the General Staff of the IDF: “The achievements the IDF has accomplished this year exceed all imagination. These military achievements ensure the continued flourishing of Israel as a Jewish and democratic state.”

President Herzog also addressed Israel’s bereaved families and wounded soldiers: “You remind us of the heavy price that we pay for our lives on our Independence Day. I wish to offer you a loving embrace and my deepest thanks. I also send my wishes for a full and speedy recovery to all the wounded in body and soul — they and their families are true heroes.”