Jerusalem, August 16, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The India-Israel friendship was prominently showcased in Jerusalem as the iconic Chords Bridge, also known as the Friendship Bridge, was illuminated in the colours of the Indian tricolour to mark India’s 80th Independence Day.
The display of saffron, white and green on the landmark bridge was described as a symbol of the growing ties between India and Israel, reflecting shared values, strong people-to-people connections and aspirations for closer cooperation.
The Embassy of India in Israel shared visuals of the illuminated bridge on X, saying, “India–Israel friendship shines bright!” The embassy said the display represented friendship, shared values and “a future full of possibilities.”
The illumination formed part of Independence Day celebrations organised by the Indian Embassy in Israel, which were attended by members of the Indian Jewish community, the Indian diaspora and friends of India.
Earlier on Saturday, the embassy said the 80th Independence Day celebrations were held with “great gaiety and fervour”. The National Song, Vande Mataram, was sung during the event for the first time as part of the celebrations, coinciding with the 150th anniversary of its composition.
The programme opened with Ambassador JP Singh unfurling the Indian national flag, followed by the National Anthem. Singh also read out the Independence Day Address to the nation by the President of India.
The celebrations featured felicitation of winners of the ‘Bharat Ko Janiye Quiz’ and the ‘India Through My Lens’ photography competition. Students of the Indian Cultural Centre also presented a dance performance highlighting India’s cultural diversity.
The embassy extended Independence Day greetings to Indians in Israel and around the world, while the tricolour-lit Chords Bridge added a prominent visual expression of the friendship between the two countries.
FOLLOW NOW
