Mr Netanyahu said: “We have defended ourselves against the attacks of hostile neighbours, overcoming threats faced by no other country.
“We have built a vibrant democracy in which freedom is sacrosanct, guaranteeing equality under the law and the rights of every citizen.”
At the official state ceremony held in Jerusalem on Mount Herzl last night, 12 beacons were lit symbolising the 12 tribes of Israel - marking the transition from Memorial Day to Independence Day.
For the first time this year, all the torch-bearers were women. These included such notable figures as Adina Bar Shalom, the daughter of the late Shas spiritual leader Ovadai Yosef, and Orna Barbivai, the first woman to gain the rank of Major General in the IDF.
