Jerusalem Day/Yom Yerushalayim is a controversial Jewish holiday that celebrates the reunification of Jerusalem in 1967, drawing criticism and celebration in equal measure. In 1947, Jews reluctantly accepted a partition plan but soon after faced Arab attacks, turning the battle for Jerusalem into a fight for Israel’s existence. East Jerusalem fell to the Jordanians, who restricted access and desecrated Jewish holy sites. In 1967, Israel emerged victorious, and 28 Iyar was declared Jerusalem Day by the government and a minor religious holiday by the Chief Rabbinate. Jerusalem Day is celebrated with parades, celebrations, and prayers, but the Flag March through Arab areas has sparked tension, highlighting ongoing challenges and the fragility of Jewish freedom in this significant city.
