Independence Day (Yom Ha'atzmaut) in Israel marks the proclamation of the State of Israel in 1948 and is celebrated with national ceremonies, fireworks and prayers of thanksgiving. It represents both a historic milestone for the Jewish people and a living symbol of national identity.

When is Independence Day?

Independence Day in Israel is observed on 5th of Iyar in the Hebrew calendar (usually in April or May).

The following is the list of Independence Day from 2020 to 2049.

The History of Independence Day?

In the late 19th century, the Zionist movement began advocating for the establishment of a Jewish homeland in the Land of Israel (then under Ottoman rule).

Waves of Jewish immigration (Aliyah) increased in the early 20th century, especially under British Mandate of Palestine (1920–1948). Tensions grew between Jews, Arabs, and the British, leading to violence and international debate.

On November 29, 1947, the United Nations General Assembly voted for the Partition Plan, recommending the division of Palestine into a Jewish state and an Arab state, with Jerusalem under international administration. The Jewish leadership accepted the plan, while Arab leaders rejected it, leading to escalating conflict.

On May 14, 1948 (5 Iyar 5708 in the Hebrew calendar), David Ben-Gurion, head of the Jewish Agency, declared the establishment of the State of Israel in Tel Aviv. The declaration came hours before the British Mandate officially ended. The new state was immediately recognized by the United States and later by the Soviet Union and other nations.

Within hours of the declaration, neighboring Arab countries (Egypt, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, and Iraq) invaded. This began the 1948 Arab–Israeli War (known in Israel as the War of Independence).

Despite being outnumbered and poorly armed, Jewish forces (later the Israel Defense Forces, IDF) prevailed. By 1949, armistice agreements were signed, and Israel had secured more territory than originally allocated by the UN plan.

The first Yom Ha'atzmaut was celebrated on May 4–5, 1949, marking the first anniversary of statehood. It was designated as a national holiday and has been celebrated annually on the 5th of Iyar (or adjusted for Shabbat) ever since.