Israel’s Consulate in New York, led by Consul General Ofir Akunis, held its main Independence Day event Sunday night. Hundreds of organization heads, consuls general, elected officials, and community leaders attended to celebrate Israel’s independence.
In his keynote address, Akunis said: “Independence Day is the most joyous day for the Jewish people since we were scattered into exile 2,000 years ago. We returned to our land and built a magnificent state. We are the only democracy in the Middle East, an economic and technological powerhouse.”
Akunis delivered a sharp message to Israel’s critics, in what appeared to be a reference to New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani: “Despite all our achievements, there are many who refuse to recognize our existence. They criticize us automatically without knowing what they’re talking about. Some are antisemitic and some are racist. To them we say—we don’t need your recognition. We know who we are and we’re proud of it!”
The consul also addressed the importance of unity and said: “We must be united within ourselves. Unity is an iron wall for our success. We need to learn from our forces what unity means. From those who fight shoulder to shoulder on the battlefield. This is the time to put aside what divides us, lower the flames, and unite.”
During the event, recorded greetings were shown from President Isaac Herzog, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar. Dedi Shimchi, father of fallen soldier Guy Shimchi, who fought Hamas terrorists with his bare hands on October 7, also delivered moving remarks.