Why Did Thousands Boycott Israel’s Official Independence Ceremony to Hold Their Own Protest?
Mount Herzl, Jerusalem, hosted Israel’s 78th Independence Day ceremony on April 21, 2026 — the first live audience since 2023. War and wildfires had kept crowds away for 2 years. Shaky ceasefires with Iran loomed overhead.
Despite attending, Netanyahu addressed the ceremony via a pre-recorded video, hailing Israel’s military victories. He declared Iran’s axis “now fighting for its survival” — but made zero mention of the October 7 Hamas massacre.
The 1st torch was lit by IDF officers Col. Mem and Maj. Nurit Rokah, wounded on October 7 and again in Gaza in 2025. Combat soldier Ari Spitz — who lost 2 legs and an arm — also lit a torch.
Assaf Granit, chef behind France’s 1st Israeli Michelin Star eatery, and Roni Farshahd, who protected Jews inside Iran’s regime before fleeing in 1997, both lit torches. Controversial rabbi Zarbiv was honored despite IDF objections.
Argentine President Milei made history as the 1st foreign leader to light a torch, joining a live song on stage. Then Minister Ben Gvir walked out — reportedly after being denied the seat beside Netanyahu.
Thousands gathered outside Tel Aviv Museum of Art — once called Hostages Square — for a rival “democratic” torch ceremony, demanding a state inquiry into October 7. Speakers warned: no government cover-up of the failure would be accepted.
