Dear Friends,

As the State of Israel prepares to celebrate its 62nd birthday, I invite you to read "As Independence Day Draws Near," an op-ed about Israel’s national holidays penned by Prof. Yedidia Stern, IDI's Vice President for Research. Published in Yediot Achronot, Israel's largest daily newspaper, the article points to segments of Israel's population that challenge the State's national ethos and issues an urgent plea for Zionists of all types to join forces in building Israel as a Jewish and democratic state. 

Also recommended is IDI Senior Researcher Yair Sheleg's op-ed "The Connection Between Israeli Greed and the Existential Threat", which was published yesterday's Haaretz.  In the spirit of Israel's Memorial Day for Fallen Soldiers, Mr. Sheleg recommends a new practice that would remind Israeli politicians of the standards and values to which they are expected to adhere. 

Wishing you and your loved ones meaningful holidays,

Barak Cohen

Director, International Communications

The Israel Democracy Institute