Independence Day

As America celebrates 250 years of independence, Watergate still whispers

Washington DC is preparing for unprecedented America250 celebrations marking 250 years of US independence, with major events across the National Mall, parades, and historic citywide displays.

THE ‘SCANDAL ROOM’ at the Watergate Hotel.
US President Donald Trump shows a rendering of the upcoming "UFC Freedom 250" event as he speaks in the Oval Office of the White House on May 6, 2026, in Washington, DC. An Ultimate Fighting Championship event will be staged on the White House's South Lawn in June. The June 14 event has been dubbed

'I just want to apologize': UFC champion claims he was uninvited from White House UFC event

People visit the graves of Israeli soldiers at Mount Herzl Military Cemetery in Jerusalem, April 16, 2026, days before Yom HaZikaron (Israeli Memorial Day).

From Remembrance Day to Independence Day as a new immigrant to Israel - opinion

US President Donald Trump looks on during a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping (not pictured) on the sidelines of a visit to Zhongnanhai Garden on May 15, 2026 in Beijing, China.

Trump to hold 'National Jubilee of Prayer,' raising concerns about separation of church and state


Independence Day ablaze: Jerusalemites find strength under fire and ash

This year’s events, though unexpected, reflected the essence of Israeli society – the day was a testament to the resilience of the Israeli people, a tale of overcoming adversity.

 Wildfires rage, with firefighters doing their valiant best.

Grapevine, May 9, 2025: Bridges of hope

Movers and shakers in Israeli society.

 BAR-ILAN UNIVERSITY President Prof. Arie Zaban with Dr. Miriam Adelson.

Israel's fire still burns: Reflecting on the symbolism of our remembrance days - opinion

The worst fires in modern Israeli history erupted just as our people sought to celebrate our hard-won independence.

 AERIAL VIEW of damage caused to Park Canada forest by massive wildfires, May 3

Rabbis, pastors attend Israel advocacy, Independence Day in Washington

For many of the pastors at the event, it was their first time in attendance.

Congressional Israel Allies Caucus Celebrates Independence Day on Capitol Hill Over 300 Rabbis and Pastors Gather in Washington, D.C. for Israel Advocacy Day and Independence Day Reception May 6, 2025, Washington D.C.

Israel's independence is incomplete until every hostage comes home - opinion

Jewish ethics insist that a society is judged not by its military might or economic prosperity but by how it treats its most marginalized members. This is the heart of our national mission.

 Relatives of Israelis held hostage protest outside Independence Hall in Tel Aviv, April 30, 2025

The real challenge of Israel's independence is our unity - opinion

In public discourse, instead of listening, we attack. Instead of seeing the other as someone who wants good for this country, we label them an enemy; instead of seeking to understand, we hate.

Israeli flags are seen at Mount Herzl Cemetery in Jerusalem, April 28, 2025

Israel judo coach Oren Smadja resigns after 15 years

"Precisely because judo is part of my soul, I can no longer, I can’t believe I’m saying this, but that’s it, I’m giving up and submitting my resignation," Smadja said on social media.

Oren Smadja, who coached Israel’s men’s national judo team for 15 years, stepped down citing deep concerns for the sport’s future.

Celebrating 77 with a $77 discount: Arkia's Independence Day offer for international flights

Arkia offers discounts on flights, vacation packages, and tours abroad until October 2025, including summer and Tishrei holidays, for Israel’s 77th Independence Day. Air Haifa offers 30% off flights.

 Arkia airplane

A home for those who defend the home: This is the country’s independence gift to reservists

To mark Israel’s 77th Independence Day, the Israel Land Authority offers 900 plots to IDF reservists and disabled veterans under special terms. Find out if you're eligible and how to apply.


Dana International's torch-bearing omitted from Channel 14 broadcast, name not mentioned on website

A openly transgender singer, the 1998 Eurovision singer was among the participants for Israel's Independence Day torch-lighting ceremony.

 An Illustration of channel 14, photo taken on June 2, 2024