Israel Marks Independence Day With Yom Ha'atzmaut Ceremonies

TEL AVIV, ISRAEL - MAY 13: Families of hostages and their supporters participate in the ‘Independence Day Rally For The Hostages’ on Yom Ha’Atzmaut in Hostages square on May 13, 2024 in Tel Aviv, Israel. The transition from Yom Hazikaron to Yom Ha'atzmaut occurs minutes after sundown on May 13, marked by a ceremony on Mount Herzl in Jerusalem. The flag, lowered to half-staff for Memorial Day, is raised to the top of the pole. This year’s celebrations are expected to be more subdued, and countless protests are planned across calling for the release of the the country while over 130 hostages remain in Gaza and the Israel- Hamas war continues. Israel celebrates Independence Day on the fifth day of Iyar, corresponding to May 14, 1948, the date of the formal establishment of the State of Israel with the signing of the Declaration of Independence in Tel Aviv. (Photo by Alexi J. Rosenfeld/Getty Images)