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The light of life 

IDF Warrior Ari Spitz Selected to Light Independence Day Torch

The IDF soldier, who lost three limbs in combat, was chosen by Minister Miri Regev to symbolize the resilience and recovery of Israel’s wounded veterans.

Ari Spitz

Minister Miri Regev, overseer of Israel’s 78th Independence Day celebrations, announced on Thursday that IDF soldier Ari Spitz has been chosen to light a torch at the national ceremony on Mount Herzl. Spitz was selected following a recommendation from the public advisory committee, cited as a symbol of both the heroism of frontline soldiers and the remarkable capacity for rehabilitation.

A Battle for Life and Recovery

Shpitz’s story is one of profound physical sacrifice and an iron will to survive. He was critically wounded in an explosive device blast in the Zeitoun neighborhood of northern Gaza. For a month and a half, he remained sedated and on a ventilator in a fight for his life.

Upon waking, Spitz discovered the extent of his injuries: he had lost one arm and both of his legs. Since then, he has undergone a grueling rehabilitation process lasting over 200 days, demonstrating what observers have described as extraordinary mental and spiritual strength.

The Beacon Ceremony
The Beacon Ceremony (Hadas Partush/Flash90)

"His Spirit Never Faltered"

In a personal conversation with Spitz, Minister Regev praised his unwavering resolve. "Ari, one of the most severely wounded soldiers of the 'Iron Swords' war, demonstrates inspiring resilience," she said. "Despite the heavy price he paid, his spirit never faltered for a moment. He gathered his inner strength to rebuild his life and, in doing so, provides strength to many others."

The Minister added that his selection serves as a wider tribute to the IDF: "Through Ari, we salute all IDF soldiers, including those wounded in body and soul who paid such a heavy price to restore peace and security to the citizens of Israel."

The Theme: "Strengths of Renewal"

The 2026 Torch-Lighting Ceremony will be held under the theme "Strengths of Renewal," a focus recently approved by the government to highlight the healing, reconstruction, and recovery of Israeli society following the war.

According to the committee, the torches will be lit by men and women whose actions bolster national resilience and help restore the regions of the country hit hardest since October 7, paving a path of hope for the nation’s future.
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