In a powerful address marking 75 years of Israel's existence, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reflected on the nation's tumultuous history and the unwavering spirit of its people. He recounted the dark beginnings when Israel was established in the wake of a struggle against overwhelming odds, stating, “75 years ago, we were brought here to die. We had neither a country nor an army.”
Netanyahu painted a vivid picture of the threats faced by the fledgling state, recalling how seven neighboring countries waged war against a mere 65,000 Israelis. He emphasized the relentless attacks from nations including Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Jordan, Egypt, and others, who sought to annihilate the Jewish people. Despite these challenges, he declared, “We survived.”
The prime minister acknowledged the United Nations' role in granting Israel land, which was largely desert at the time. He expressed pride in how the Jewish people transformed that land through their blood, sweat, and resilience, stating, “We accepted it as our nation because, for us, it was everything.”
Netanyahu's speech emphasized a long history of survival, highlighting past adversities, including the reign of Pharaohs, Greek conquests, Roman occupation, the Inquisition in Spain, and the Holocaust. “We have forgotten nothing,” he asserted. “We survived Pharaoh. We survived Greece. We survived Rome... We will survive Hamas, we will survive Hezbollah, and we will survive Iran.”
He underscored the significance of Jerusalem to the Jewish people, stating that the city has faced numerous attacks and sieges throughout history but remains an indelible part of their identity. “Our Jerusalem has been attacked 52 times, besieged 23 times... but we have never forgotten our Jerusalem. It is in our hearts, it is in our minds.”
Addressing the ongoing threats from extremist groups, Netanyahu expressed concern over cultural appropriation and the historical narrative surrounding Jewish prophets. He emphasized the Jewish people's resilience in maintaining their identity and faith, despite centuries of persecution.
“We built our nation with our hands, with our sacrifices, and with our willpower,” he said, celebrating the transformation of Israel into a thriving democracy and a leader in innovation. “Today, we stand strong, united, and determined to defend our people, our land, and our future.”
Netanyahu conveyed a message of unwavering resolve, insisting that Israel will not be intimidated by terror or threats. “Israel is here to stay,” he declared, reaffirming the nation's commitment to peace without compromising its security.
He concluded with a powerful assertion of the Jewish people's determination and hope. “The world must understand that the Jewish people are not going anywhere. We will continue to thrive. Jerusalem will remain the eternal capital of Israel... We are a people of hope, of strength, of resilience. And we will continue to rise.”
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