Political Quotes

“Tomorrow is Yom Ha'atzmaut, the commemoration of the Israeli Declaration of Independence in 1948. This day of celebration is always immediately preceded by Yom Hazikaron, Israel's Memorial Day. This timing is no accident. The people of Israel know that their freedom comes at a high price. Today I am humbled to join them in remembering more than 23,000 soldiers and victims of terrorist attacks who have paid this price, including 68 soldiers and police officers and 32 civilians over the past year alone. The strong relationship between the United States and Israel dates back more than six decades. On May 14, 1948, just 11 minutes after the provisional government of Israel, led by Prime Minister David Ben- Gurion, proclaimed a new state, President Harry S. Truman announced: ``This government has been informed that a Jewish state has been proclaimed in Palestine, and recognition has been requested by the provisional government thereof. The United States recognizes the provisional government as the de facto authority of the new State of Israel.'' This year, Israelis will celebrate their independence as they always have, gathering for public shows, performing Israeli folk dances, singing Israeli songs, and spending the day with families at picnics or on hikes. The holiday will conclude with the awarding of the Israeli Prize to men and women who have made unique contributions to culture, science, the arts, and humanities.…”