Israels largest and most expensive torch-lighting ceremony took place on Wednesday evening in Jerusalem. The traditional event kicks off Israels Independence Day, which marks 70 years since Israels establishment this year.

As Israelis prepared to celebrate the countrys 70th Independence Day, security forces were thwarting attempts to carry out attacks during the holiday. Near Jenin, a truck carrying “very powerful” explosives was stopped and the driver was arrested. At the Qalandiya checkpoint, a Palestinian armed wit

In honor of the 70th anniversary of Israels establishment, US President Donald Trump sent out a special message to the Jewish state. “Looking forward to moving our Embassy to Jerusalem next month!” he added.

As Israelis began celebrating Israels 70th Independence Day, a young couple in Tel Aviv was welcoming their first child into the world. Less than 10 minutes after the official state ceremony in Jerusalem began, Shira Goren gave birth to a healthy baby girl.

Israels Independence Day celebrations are well underway across the country. Israels 70th Independence Day kicked off yesterday evening with the official state ceremony in Jerusalem. In the pictures below, see how Israelis are marking this special event.