Israel remembers its fallen ahead of celebrating 71 years of independence; Ceremonies and educational programs to be held throughout Israel Wednesday into Thursday.

Israelis will commemorate its over 23,000 fallen during Yom Hazikaron, Israel’s Memorial Day for the Fallen Soldiers of Israel and Victims of Terrorism, on Tuesday evening through Wednesday.

Israelis will gather at military cemeteries and ceremonies across the country, remembering those who fell for Israel’s freedom. A one-minute siren will be heard on Tuesday night, followed by a two-minute siren on Wednesday morning. Israelis will stop everything and observe and remember during those times, as is done on Yom Hashoah.

Israel’s Defense Ministry reported that 23,741 were killed fighting for Israel’s independence since 1890. 96 were added to the list in the past year, 56 of them casualties from war or conflict and 40 passing from injuries or disabilities caused by injuries.

Prime Minister Netanyahu and Israel’s new government MK’s of the 21st Knesset will give speeches at ceremonies across Israel Tuesday and Wednesday. IDF soldiers will participate and also facilitate ceremonies throughout Israel’s military bases and cemeteries. Following Yom Hazikaron, Israelis will celebrate 71 years of independence on Wednesday evening into Thursday.

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