Today, Israel celebrates its 61st birthday. Each year that we mark the
rebirth of the Jewish state after long centuries of exile is a great cause
for celebration.
After centuries of powerlessness, the Jewish people returned to the stage of
history and to their rightful place among the nations. With the rebirth of
Israel, we were once again able to chart our own destiny and determine our
own future.
The past 61 years show just what a free and independent Jewish nation can
achieve. With scarce resources, we brought a barren land back to life and
absorbed millions of immigrants. Through innovation and determination, the
genius of our people has made us a leader in agriculture, medicine and
science, while our creativity spawned a high-tech industry that continues to
amaze the world. We have achieved peace with Egypt and Jordan and we will
continue to seek peace with all our neighbors.
All this has been achieved even though Israel has lived under constant
threat for 61 years. Unfortunately, Israel remains under threat. An Iranian
regime that is feverishly pursuing nuclear weapons brazenly calls for our
destruction. Terror organizations on our southern and northern borders grow
stronger by the day. And a rising tide of anti-Semitism is sweeping the
civilized world.
To address these challenges in the years ahead, unity among our people, both
inside and outside Israel, will be more important than ever. That is why it
is vital that we continue to strengthen the bonds between Israel and the
Diaspora. These bonds are a source of mutual strength and a powerful
reminder of the unique role that Israel plays in the world and in the
history of our people.
On this Independence Day, let us take pride in all we have accomplished and
let us look forward to a time of security, prosperity and peace. If we stand
together as brothers and sisters, if we stand together with courage and
conviction, that time will surely come.
Chag Sameach!
Sincerely,
Benjamin Netanyahu
