Guardians of Israel: The IDF’s Unyielding Spirit of Courage

Each year, as the sun sets on Yom Hazikaron, Israel pauses to honor its fallen heroes: soldiers and civilians who gave their lives for the Jewish state. In an instant, the silence of mourning transforms into a vibrant celebration, marking Yom Haatzmaut, Israel’s Independence Day.

This sacred transition reflects the resilience of a people who, after 1,900 years of exile, reclaimed their ancient homeland on May 14, 1948. The story of that day, a triumph forged in struggle, sacrifice, and hope, continues to inspire Jews worldwide.

On May 14, 1948, as the British Mandate came to an end, David Ben-Gurion stood in Tel Aviv and proclaimed Israel’s independence. His words resonated with a vision of peace: “We appeal, in the midst of the onslaught launched against us for months, to the Arab inhabitants of the State of Israel to preserve peace and participate in the building of the State on the basis of full and equal citizenship and due representation in all its provisional and permanent institutions.” It was an outstretched hand, a dream of unity.

Yom Haatzmaut is inseparably linked to Yom Hazikaron, which honors the sacrifices of the Israel Defense Forces. Today, the IDF is a beacon of morality in a complex world. Operating in urban warfare against terrorist groups that use civilians as shields, the IDF maintains exceptional standards of International Humanitarian Law. They achieve a civilian-to-combatant casualty ratio of 1:1 to 1:1.5 in Gaza, far surpassing global norms, such as those in the Iraq War (1:2 to 1:4).

When civilians are near military targets, the IDF alerts them with calls, messages, and leaflets, often canceling operations to save innocent lives. A 2015 report by military leaders from liberal democracies praised these tactics, stating that the IDF sets a standard few armies could match.

Let’s be clear: Israel did not start this conflict; Hamas did. The IDF does not deliberately target civilians; Hamas does. There is no moral equivalence between an army that protects its people and a terrorist organization that exploits children and murders babies. Hamas has no right to exist; Israel has the inalienable right to defend itself.

At the heart of this struggle are the IDF soldiers, young people who represent Israel’s diversity: Jews, Druze, Bedouins, men, and women, all united by a common purpose. They are the guardians of hope, carrying the weight of the 1948 dream on their shoulders.

I think of Sergeant Dan and his friends from the Givati Brigade, who faced the tragedy of October 7, 2023. Dan remembers Roitman, his best friend, a brother who inspired him to keep going, promising to stay in touch no matter the circumstances. Almog, the generous soul who shared everything without asking for anything in return, with a heart as big as his strength. Lewin, the impeccable navigator who ensured safety and professionalism in every mission. Carlos, the natural leader who handled challenges with the wisdom of a veteran. And Talposh, the mentor who taught values and skills at the highest level.

These soldiers, fallen in defense of Israel, left a legacy of courage and humanity. As Dan wrote, “I know each of you would want me to keep my head high and be the strongest team. I promise.”

On March 12, 2025, a 4-year-old boy was seen approaching an IDF post in the security zone. The soldiers, trained for vigilance but guided by humanity, escorted the child back to Gaza in collaboration with international organizations. The boy confessed that Hamas had sent him, a vile tactic by a group that exploits the most vulnerable. This act of compassion is not an exception but a reflection of the IDF’s spirit: protecting lives, even in the most difficult circumstances.

These soldiers are the backbone of Israel. Their bravery ensures that nearly half of the world’s Jews, who live in Israel, can thrive in safety. Without them, the miracle of 1948 would not have survived.

On Yom Haatzmaut, as we raise our flag and sing “Hatikvah,” let us honor these modern heroes. Their sacrifice, like that of Roitman, Almog, Lewin, Carlos, and Talposh, not only protects a nation but inspires the world with an example of courage, brotherhood, and unwavering commitment. To them, our eternal gratitude.

On Yom Haatzmaut, we celebrate a miracle: a people who, after millennia of exile, built a thriving nation against all odds. It is a victory of vision, sacrifice, and the indomitable spirit of Israel, embodied in the brave soldiers of the IDF. May their strength guide us toward a future of peace.