On May 1, 2025, Israel celebrates its 77th Independence Day, known as Yom Ha’atzmaut, a day that commemorates the formal establishment of the modern Jewish state in 1948. But Israel’s true history stretches back thousands of years. This article honors not only 77 years of modern statehood but nearly four millennia of Jewish presence, culture, and perseverance in the land of Israel. In an age marked by increasing antisemitism, global misinformation, and acts of violence against Jews, the celebration of Israel’s existence has never been more vital.
Israel’s Ancient Legacy
The Jewish people’s connection to the Land of Israel dates back to biblical times. Ancient texts, historical evidence, and archaeological discoveries confirm the existence of Jewish kingdoms and communities that thrived long before the modern era. Jerusalem was established as the capital of King David’s united kingdom around 1000 BCE. For over 3,000 years, Jews have lived in, prayed for, and defended this land, regardless of occupation, exile, or diaspora.
This long-standing connection is unique among modern nations. Unlike most countries, whose histories span a few hundred years at best, Israel is the physical and spiritual homeland of the Jewish people—a people with an unbroken historical thread that ties the modern Jewish state to its biblical ancestors.
The Modern State: Founded in 1948
On May 14, 1948, David Ben-Gurion proclaimed the independence of the State of Israel, fulfilling the dreams of generations of Jews worldwide. After centuries of exile, pogroms, and ultimately the horrors of the Holocaust, Israel became a sovereign nation where Jews could govern themselves and defend their existence. The 1948 declaration was not a beginning, but a reassertion of an ancient right.
In the 77 years since, Israel has grown from a vulnerable, impoverished refuge into a technological powerhouse, an agricultural innovator, and a military force to be reckoned with. Despite its small size, Israel has made world-changing contributions in medicine, cybersecurity, AI, and water conservation. The country is also a thriving democracy where Jews, Arabs, Christians, Druze, and others vote, debate, and enjoy freedoms unknown to most of the Middle East.
Yom Ha’atzmaut 2025: A Time of Celebration and Vigilance
This year’s Yom Ha’atzmaut was marked by both celebration and concern. As millions of Israelis gathered for fireworks, air shows, and barbecues, wildfires erupted in the Jerusalem Hills. On April 30, 2025, fires broke out near Mevaseret Zion and Shoresh, threatening homes and forests. Over 5,000 acres burned, and 16 individuals were injured. Authorities arrested 18 suspects, many believed to be Palestinians, on charges of arson.
While Israel celebrates peace and prosperity, its enemies continue to wage asymmetric warfare. Setting forests ablaze during a national holiday is not only an act of environmental terrorism but a cowardly assault on Israeli sovereignty and civilian morale. Despite this, emergency responders, IDF reservists, and volunteers worked around the clock to contain the flames and protect lives and homes—another display of Israel’s unshakable national spirit.
Antisemitism on the Rise
Antisemitism is spreading across college campuses, social media, and even mainstream politics. In 2024 and 2025, anti-Israel protests and boycotts increased worldwide, often veiled in so-called “anti-Zionist” rhetoric. But make no mistake: denying Israel’s right to exist is antisemitism.
Israel is the world’s only Jewish state. Its right to exist, to defend its citizens, and to maintain its Jewish identity is non-negotiable. With global Jewish communities under increasing threat, Israel provides a safe haven and a source of pride. Its presence deters the return of horrors past. Its absence would endanger Jewish survival.
Why Israel Matters to the World
Israel stands as a bulwark of freedom and innovation in a region plagued by tyranny. It has made peace with several Arab nations through the Abraham Accords and continues to seek dialogue while defending its borders. Its hospitals treat patients from enemy territories. Its scientists share knowledge globally. Its military, the IDF, exercises restraint unimaginable for any other country facing comparable threats.
America and other democratic nations must support Israel—not only because it is morally right but because our values are intertwined. A strong Israel means a stronger West. A weaker Israel means emboldened terrorism, chaos, and the spread of radical ideologies.
Conclusion
As Israel turns 77, we must remember this is not merely the birthday of a modern state but a celebration of a nation as old as civilization itself. The Jewish people returned home after two thousand years of exile, persecution, and genocide. They revived their language, restored their cities, and built a thriving, modern democracy.
On this Yom Ha’atzmaut, let us reaffirm our support for Israel against antisemitism, terror, and lies. Let us stand with the truth, with history, and with the Jewish people. Israel lives. Israel thrives. And Israel will endure.
Featured image credit: DepositPhotos.com
