Independence Day torch-lighting ceremony canceled amid fires, strong winds

30 April 2025, 1:40 pm Edit

Blanca Gut and Itzik Akrish light the torch during the main rehearsal of the 77th anniversary Independence Day ceremony, held at Mount Herzl, Jerusalem, on April 28, 2025. The recorded rehearsal for the ceremony was in fact broadcast on the evening of April 30, at the start of Independence Day, in place of the intended live event, which was canceled because of wildfires raging around Jerusalem. (Yonatan Sindel/Flash90)

Transportation Minister Miri Regev announces that she is canceling the Independence Day torch-lighting ceremony this evening in Jerusalem due to strong winds and brush fires raging in the nearby hills.

“I just concluded a situational assessment with the safety officials. There is potential for serious damage and risk to human life. My decision is unequivocal — not to take any risk,” Regev says.

The ceremony on Mount Herzl is a pivotal event marking the emotional transition from Memorial Day to Independence Day, from mourning to celebration.

Regev says footage from the main dress rehearsal will be broadcast instead.