Netanyahu Pays Tribute to Ethiopian Jews at State Memorial Ceremony, Condemns Racist Violence and Honors Community’s Sacrifice.
Israeli Prime Minister Highlights Heroism, Integration, and Legacy of Ethiopian Jewish Community During Jerusalem Day Ceremony.
Jerusalem:
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered an emotional address at the State Memorial Ceremony honoring Ethiopian Jews who lost their lives during their historic journey to Israel, paying tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and enduring contribution of the Ethiopian Jewish community to Israeli society.
Speaking at the ceremony held on Jerusalem Day, Netanyahu expressed deep sorrow over the hardships endured by Ethiopian Jews during their migration to Israel through dangerous routes across Ethiopia and Sudan. He bowed his head in memory of the thousands who died while seeking to reach Jerusalem and described their journey as “an unparalleled heroic journey.”
The Prime Minister also addressed recent incidents of violence involving members of the Ethiopian community, referring specifically to the deaths of two young Ethiopian-Israelis, Yemano Benjamin Zalka and Destau Chekol, who were allegedly killed by criminal youths in separate incidents in Petah Tikva and Be’er Sheva.
Netanyahu said he and his wife, Sara Netanyahu, were “shaken to the depths of their souls” upon hearing the news and strongly condemned the attacks. He assured the families that the full force of the law would be used against those responsible and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fighting racism, discrimination, and violence in all forms.
“I do not say this as lip-service,” Netanyahu stated. “I attribute the highest importance to achieving these goals.”
Tribute to Ethiopian-Israeli Soldiers and National Service
During his speech, Netanyahu praised Ethiopian-Israeli youth serving in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), police, Border Police, and other security agencies. He described them as courageous defenders of the nation and contrasted their dedication with the actions of what he called “lawless fringe youth.”
The Prime Minister said he regularly meets Ethiopian-Israeli soldiers and commanders serving in Gaza, Lebanon, Air Force bases, and other military units, expressing admiration for their bravery and sacrifice.
He also highlighted the story of Major Gadi Marsha, believed to be the first Jewish tracker officer in IDF history. Netanyahu recounted how Marsha migrated from Ethiopia as a child after a perilous journey through Sudan and later joined the Israeli military, eventually becoming an officer before being killed at the Kissufim checkpoint near Gaza 25 years ago.
According to Netanyahu, Marsha’s life symbolizes the determination and heroism of Ethiopian Jews and serves as an inspiration for future generations.
Focus on Integration and Social Progress
The Prime Minister also used the occasion to outline government efforts aimed at improving the integration of Ethiopian Jews into Israeli society. He said there had been significant progress in education, employment, and social welfare indicators within the community.
Netanyahu noted that the rate of eligibility for high school matriculation certificates among Ethiopian-Israeli students has now reached the national average, calling it a major achievement compared to earlier years when significant gaps existed.
He further pointed to increased participation of Ethiopian youth in gifted education programs and a rise in average wages among members of the community enrolled in government employment initiatives.
The Prime Minister acknowledged that challenges still remain but emphasized that the government is continuing to invest hundreds of millions of shekels into programs focused on social integration and equal opportunity.
Heritage Preservation and Memorial Projects
As part of efforts to preserve the heritage of Ethiopian Jews, Netanyahu announced initiatives including the establishment of a new heritage and memorial visitors center in Jerusalem dedicated to the story of Ethiopian Jewish aliyah to Israel.
He also referred to projects such as “Beit Yerusalem” in Jerusalem’s Neve Yaakov neighborhood and a heritage preservation center in the city of Ariel. According to Netanyahu, these institutions aim to educate future generations about the history, culture, and Zionist contribution of the Ethiopian Jewish community.
The Prime Minister additionally mentioned ongoing efforts to preserve centuries-old sacred texts belonging to Ethiopian Jews, whom he described as descendants linked to the biblical Tribe of Dan.
Jerusalem Day Message
Concluding his address, Netanyahu linked the story of Ethiopian Jewish migration to the broader Zionist vision and the significance of Jerusalem. Marking 59 years since the reunification of Jerusalem, he said Israel would continue to protect and preserve the city “for generations to come.”
“The memory of those who perished on the journey from Ethiopia will remain engraved in our hearts from generation to generation,” he said.
The ceremony served as both a memorial for those who died seeking to reach Israel and a recognition of the Ethiopian Jewish community’s lasting role in Israeli society and national life.
