Israeli President Herzog Calls for Return to Normal Life Post-War

On the eve of Rosh Hashanah, Israeli President Isaac Herzog reflected on the past three years, marking a new historical chapter for the nation. He acknowledged the profound challenges and losses the country has endured, alongside significant achievements and strengthened alliances. Herzog highlighted the resilience and mutual support demonstrated by Israeli society during difficult times.

He emphasized that true victory extends beyond defeating enemies, stating it will be complete when life returns to its normal course. This includes resuming creative and productive endeavors, learning, building, fulfilling dreams, and securing a future of safety, stability, and hope for children. The president also mourned the growing list of fallen soldiers and citizens, vowing that their sacrifices would not be forgotten.

Hersog urged Israelis to look towards the future with hope, a hope informed by loss but choosing life. He stressed the importance of shifting from solely defending life to actively living it, and to consider the kind of nation and society they wish to build for future generations.

Drawing inspiration from the national anthem, Herzog called for a "commandment of hope" to guide the nation. He linked this hope to healing, not just of physical wounds, but also a restoration of national spirit, momentum, and dreams. He reiterated his message from a previous speech at the Western Wall, emphasizing the underlying spirit that drives Israelis in conflict, and even more so in their aspirations and daily lives.

The president outlined the mission for the coming year: to reconnect with this spirit, translate hope into action, heal the wounded, strengthen communities, restore trust, and rebuild the Israeli future. He envisioned a bright future characterized by a strong economy, thriving science, AI innovation, and a proud education system, all achievable by holding onto the driving spirit and hope.

Concluding his remarks, Herzog noted that after three years of fighting for life, the new year calls for building that life. He expressed belief that from this rebuilt life, hope, creation, and faith, the post-war narrative will be written, wishing everyone a year of hope, growth, and healing.