President Herzog Appeals to Prime Minister Netanyahu for Ceremony
President Isaac Herzog appealed to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, suggesting that Israel’s official ceremony commemorating the October 7 massacre be held at the President’s Residence without any political symbols. The proposal aimed to ease tensions and prevent further discord among the people. The controversy escalated when Transportation Minister Miri Regev’s press briefing on the ceremony’s preparations led to several kibbutzim near the Gaza border refusing to participate.
In response, Herzog proposed a respectful and unifying ceremony at the President’s Residence, inclusive of traditional state elements and Jewish prayers of mourning. He emphasized the importance of commemorating the anniversary in a manner that fosters unity and healing rather than division. Herzog urged Netanyahu to consider the proposal seriously and discuss it in the Ministerial Committee on Symbols and Ceremonies.
As the nation prepares for memorial days, Herzog emphasized the role of elected officials in providing comfort, growth, and hope to the citizens of Israel, highlighting the need for unity and solidarity during these challenging times.