Blanka Gut, a 90-year-old Holocaust survivor and mother of a large family, has been chosen to light a torch at Israel’s official 77th Independence Day Ceremony on Mount Herzl. The announcement was made today (Monday) by Minister of Culture and Sports Miri Regev.
Knitting Around the Clock for IDF Soldiers
Blanka was deeply moved by the October 7th attacks and sprang into action. Together with her children, she purchased every available olive-green yarn in Israel and began knitting nonstop—producing hats, warmers, and other items for IDF soldiers stationed across the country.
Minister Regev praised her dedication: “Blanka’s spirit of dedication and generosity hasn’t slowed down, even in her tenth decade of life. She’s not just knitting—she’s stitching together solidarity and sending a powerful message that age is no barrier to spreading light and helping others.”
This Year’s Theme: “Bridges of Hope”
The upcoming torch-lighting ceremony will take place under the theme “Bridges of Hope,” celebrating individuals who unite and inspire Israeli society during this time of national challenge.
