The Knesset on Sunday hosted the 120 IDF soldiers who will receive certificates of excellence from President Reuven Rivlin during the traditional Independence Day ceremony at the President’s Residence.
 
During Sunday’s ceremony, held at the Knesset’s courtyard, Speaker of the Knesset Yuli-Yoel Edelstein (Likud), accompanied by Knesset Secretary Yardena Meller-Horowitz, presented each soldier with a gift.
 
While congratulating the outstanding soldiers, Speaker Edelstein addressed the security situation in south Israel, saying “the escalation is not due to lack of funds or the blockade, but rather to the very existence of the State of Israel. Our enemies fear the united front we are presenting with Arab countries in the region.”
 
“The operations being carried out by the security forces since yesterday against terror groups in Gaza will continue until calm is restored to the citizens of Israel,” he stated.
 
On behalf of the Knesset, Speaker Edelstein offered condolences to the family of Moshe Agadi, who was killed when a rocket hit his home early Sunday morning, and wished those injured in the attacks a speedy recovery.
 
“Our and your insistence on striving for victory and excellence is what has led different countries in the region to change direction and seek ties with the State of Israel,” Speaker Edelstein told the soldiers.
 
“Remember that we will also need you five, 10 and 20 years from now; not necessarily in the battlefield, but in volunteer work, in your careers, in studies. And who knows, perhaps we will meet again when you are selected to light torches at the Independence Day ceremonies.”