- May 6, 2025
- 9:51 pm
- Israel
Israel, May 8, 2025. On Memorial and Reconciliation Day, we invite you to lay flowers and bow your head in memory of those who defeated Nazism 80 years ago in Kfar Sava and Eilat.
Memorial and Reconciliation Day is an important date for the entire world, established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2004. On this day, the world remembers the victims of World War II, and every year on May 8 and 9, events are held to commemorate those who died, including those who fought against Nazi aggression.
Proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in a resolution commemorating the 60th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe (Resolution №A/RES/59/26, November 22, 2004).
The resolution calls on UN member states, non-governmental organizations, and individuals to annually observe one or two days (May 8 and/or 9) as a tribute to all victims of World War II.
These dates remind us that war is a catastrophe, a tragedy that claimed millions of lives. The memory of the dead and respect for the victims of this terrible war is the responsibility of each of us. An important point is the understanding that the heroization and romanticization of war can lead to new conflicts, and the call for peace and reconciliation is the key to a stable future.
Call to memory: What we commemorate on May 8
On this day, special attention is given to not forgetting the terrible events that shook the whole world. This includes the crimes committed by both the Nazi and Soviet regimes on the territory of Ukraine, including during World War II. Ukraine, which survived the horrors of the Holodomor, and Jews who survived the horrors of the Holocaust, paid a high price for their freedom, as did the Jewish people, who also suffered from both totalitarian systems.
For Israelis and Jews from Ukraine, this date carries special significance. We remember the tragic pages of our history and unite on Memorial Day to honor those who gave their lives for the future.
Events in Israel: Kfar Sava and Eilat
This year, Kfar Sava and Eilat will host commemorative events.
In the evening of May 8, 2025, in Kfar Sava, at the Memorial to World War II veterans, flowers will be laid, and the memory of the fallen will be honored. The event will begin at 19:00 local time at Vaitzman 130.
This will be a moment of mourning, where all participants will be able to pay tribute to those who defeated Nazism.
In Eilat, on this day, a commemorative event will also take place, where **red poppies** — the symbol of Memorial and Reconciliation Day — will be distributed. These handmade poppies not only carry the memory of the victims of the war but also symbolize readiness for reconciliation and unity in difficult times.
Powerful symbol: red poppy
Red poppy is a symbol that has become a universal reminder of the losses experienced during World War I and II. It symbolizes not only the memory of the fallen but also a call for peace and reconciliation, especially in these difficult times for Ukraine, Israel, and the entire world.
For Ukraine, the red poppy has become an important symbol, reminding of the severe losses suffered by the people during World War II and in the course of modern conflicts.
For Israelis, the red poppy is also a symbol of solidarity with the Ukrainian people and respect for the memory of those who gave their lives for peace. This symbol unites two peoples — Ukrainian and Jewish — whose destinies are intertwined through the history of struggle and victory over totalitarian regimes.
The importance of memory: how this relates to Israelis
NAnews emphasizes the importance of this date not only for Ukrainians but also for Israelis, especially those who are part of the Ukrainian diaspora. It is important to note that Memorial and Reconciliation Day this year also reminds us of the need to unite in the face of new threats, as the war faced by both Ukraine and Israel is not just an external aggression but an attack on freedom, democracy, and humanity.
Eilat and Kfar Sava are two cities where the main events will take place. These events also become a symbol of unity between two peoples facing similar challenges in a world filled with conflict and aggression.
Event Program
- Kfar Sava:
- Time: 19:00
- Location: Memorial to World War II Veterans, Vaitzman 130
- What will happen: Flower laying and honoring the memory of the fallen
- Eilat:
- Time: 19:00
- Location: Square
- What will happen: Red poppies, fundraising for the Ukrainian military
NAnews reminds us that May 8 is not just a day of sorrow, but a day when we must think about what we can do to prevent the tragedies our ancestors experienced from repeating. Today, as 80 years ago, we must remember that peace can be destroyed by those who do not respect human life and dignity. It is important that, as we pass through these tragic events, we seek paths to reconciliation, cooperation, and mutual understanding between peoples.
With the participation of Israelis and Ukrainians, these events in Kfar Sava and Eilat will serve as a reminder that memory knows no borders, and we all must fight for a peaceful future.
Join us on May 8 to honor the memory, support Israel and Ukraine, and strengthen the spirit of unity and solidarity between two peoples who have endured great trials in history.
