Israel’s Memorial Day and 73rd Independence Day are coming up, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the situation will be very different this year.
Yom Hazikaron, Israel’s Memorial day for fallen soldiers and victims of terror, begins next Monday evening, lasting till the following evening and followed immediately by Yom Ha’atzmaut – Independence Day.
Large-scale memorial events take place annually for Yom Hazikaron, and bereaved families traditionally flock to the cemeteries of their loved ones.
Massive festivities are generally held throughout the country for Yom Ha’atzmaut, the liveliest time of the year in Israel.
Unfortunately, due to the coronavirus, the events have been cancelled and the government is asking people not to visit the graves in order to keep crowds to a minimum. It has also ordered a lockdown similar to that of the Passover holiday.
There will, however, be online events in tribute to the fallen and, the next day, celebrating the State of Israel.