Thousands Honor Israel National Service Volunteers at Jerusalem Ceremony

The main tribute event for Israel’s National-Civil Service was held Monday evening at the Sultan’s Pool complex in Jerusalem, drawing thousands of volunteers as part of the annual Week of Appreciation. The ceremony recognized men and women serving in the national service system and their contribution during the war period.

National Missions and Settlement Minister Orit Strock, who oversees the National-Civil Service, addressed the audience and praised the volunteers for their work and impact. She told them, “You knew it would not be easy, but you also knew it would be important and meaningful. You embraced, supported, initiated and led. Wherever you operated, you gave hope and strengthened Israeli society.”

Strock said the volunteers had continued to carry out their public mission despite the war’s severe challenges, and that this had directly strengthened the civilian front during one of the most difficult periods in Israel’s history. She also spoke to bereaved families connected to the national service, expressing deep appreciation and thanks.

The minister said that during the current year, an important process was completed to allocate a dedicated budget for commemorating National Service volunteers who died while on active service. She also thanked Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich for helping expand the national service budget, Knesset Labor and Welfare Committee Chair MK Michal Woldiger for supporting the system in parliament, and National Service Director-General Reuven Pinski for his ongoing work.