Yom Ha-Zikaron
Description
Yom HaZikaron was unofficially observed since 1948, the founding of the State of Israel, but it received official commemorative status in 1963. On this date, tribute is paid to soldiers who died in battle, as well as to police officers, security service members, and Mossad agents who defended Israel.
Today, Israel exists thanks to the outstanding contributions and courage of its citizens. Independence came at a great cost: during Yom HaZikaron, Israel remembers more than 24,000 fallen soldiers and over 4,000 victims of terrorism.
All shops, restaurants, and cinemas in the country are closed due to mourning for the fallen, and radio and television programs discuss the wars in which Israel has participated.
Like on Holocaust Remembrance Day, a siren sounds twice during Yom HaZikaron, and the entire country pauses in respect for those who sacrificed their lives to protect the future.
