Israel marks Yom Hazikaron under virus restrictions
Ceremonies remembered 23,816 soldiers who have died while serving and 3,153 Israelis killed in terror attacks since the founding of the state
Israel marked its national day of remembrance for fallen soldiers and victims of terrorism under lockdown.
Soldiers paid respects at Mount Qiryat Shemona Cemetery as the country came to a standstill to remember those who have died on the battlefield or as a result of attacks.
The national memorial ceremony was held in the military section of Mount Herzl cemetery, but without an audience because of the coronavirus.
On Tuesday night, the country will transition from sadness to joy as its citizens begin celebrations for Yom Haatzmaut, or Independence Day.
This year, due to the outbreak of the Coronavirus, there were restrictions in place, meaning many families were not allowed to go to cemeteries on the day itself. Israel’s 53 military cemeteries were shut, with bereaved families encouraged to visit graves of their loved ones in the days leading up to Memorial Day.
An official state ceremony at the Western Wall was held without an audience, with Israeli President Reuven Rivlin and Israel Defense Forces Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Aviv Kochavi participating – but wearing face masks.
A small honor guard standing appropriately socially distanced accompanied the ceremony, all wearing face masks.
“This year, you are alone in your rooms, listening to the echoes of their voices. We cannot come to your homes, we cannot stand alongside you at the military cemeteries. We cannot embrace you,” Rivlin said, addressing the bereaved families.
“This year, we can’t cry together. This year, we can’t look into your eyes.”
The ceremony’s host called on Israelis to stand on their balconies and sing their national anthem, “Hatikvah,” at the conclusion of the ceremony.
The ceremony remembered the 23,816 soldiers and security officers who have died while serving in the Israel Defense Forces and its forerunners. Forty-two names were added this year, as well as the names of 33 veterans who died of wounds sustained during their service.
The list dates from 1860, the year in which the first Jewish neighborhood was established outside the Old City of Jerusalem, known as the Yishuv.
Memorial Day also remembers the 3,153 Israelis killed in terror attacks since the founding of the state.
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