President Herzog Opens 22nd Maccabiah Games in Jerusalem with Call for Unity and Strength

The 22nd Maccabiah Games were inaugurated on Tuesday evening at Teddy Stadium in Jerusalem with a powerful ceremony attended by thousands of Jewish athletes from around the world. President Isaac Herzog delivered an emotional speech welcoming the participants, calling the event a "display of unprecedented Jewish strength" and emphasizing Jerusalem as the eternal capital of the Jewish people. He connected the opening to the ongoing security challenges Israel faces, stating, "Tomorrow marks the thousandth day of a difficult war, and despite the pain, we have proven we can overcome any challenge. We are a victorious people." His remarks received enthusiastic applause from the packed stadium.

Herzog highlighted the Maccabiah as a symbol of Jewish unity and resilience, sending a clear message against rising antisemitism worldwide. He urged the athletes to enjoy the games, break records, and convey a message of love from Israel to Jewish communities globally. The president also thanked the organizers and supporters, concluding with the rallying cry, "The people of Israel live!"

The Maccabiah, known as the largest Jewish sporting event globally, has been held since the 1930s. This edition takes place amid a prolonged war and a surge in global antisemitism. Originally scheduled for summer 2025, the games were postponed to summer 2026 due to the conflict, a decision seen as a significant Zionist statement. Culture and Sports Minister Miki Zohar previously described the event as a "resounding Zionist declaration to the world" and an unparalleled demonstration of Jewish strength.

Ahead of the opening, the Maccabiah torch was lit at the ancient Maccabees' tombs by Olympic triathlete Shahar Shagiv, symbolizing the continuity of generations in Israeli sports. The torch then traveled globally before arriving in Jerusalem. The ceremony featured artistic performances, a parade of delegations, and the lighting of the central torch, with thousands of spectators turning the evening into a national celebration of sport, Zionism, and unity.