Minister Miri Regev, who oversees the official events for Israel’s 77th Independence Day, announced today that she has approved the IDF Chief of Staff’s recommendation and personally informed Lt. Faez Faris and Lt. Hagit Alon Elharar of their selection to light a torch in a joint segment at the national ceremony on Mount Herzl. They will join journalist Ben Shapiro, freed hostage Emily Damari, and former Olympic judoka and coach Oren Smadja, who were previously announced as torchlighters.
Lt. Faez Faris
Lt. Faez Faris is a member of Israel’s Druze community from the northern town of Hurfeish, who has held several key command positions in the IDF’s Kfir Brigade. On the morning of October 7, he arrived with his soldiers at Kibbutz Re’im and joined in fierce combat against Hamas terrorists. He bravely engaged the enemy and rescued civilians under fire. Throughout the ongoing Swords of Iron war, Faris continued to contribute significantly to IDF operations and was recently appointed as commander of the Ephraim Regional Brigade.
Lt. Hagit Alon Elharar
Alon-Elharar, from a large family in Kiryat Shmona, broke barriers as a woman in IDF logistics roles. She served as head of equipment departments and in multiple senior logistics positions. On October 7, she reported for reserve duty. A year into the war, her son, Amichai z”l—a recruit in the Golani Brigade training base—was tragically killed. Despite the immense personal loss and evacuation of her family from their northern home, she has continued to serve in the reserves ever since.
“Bridges of Hope and Inspiration”
Minister Regev praised the two honorees, saying:
“Faez and Hagit are living bridges of hope and inspiration. With unwavering dedication, they embody the spirit of both active-duty and reserve soldiers who stand as Israel’s shield. Each of them, through their actions and sacrifices, has strengthened the resilience of Israeli society and helped forge a powerful emotional bond among its diverse communities.”
Emily Damari and Oren Smadja Also Chosen to Light Torches
Earlier today (Sunday), Regev also announced the selection of Emily Damari, a freed hostage, and Dr. Oren Smadja, former Olympic medalist and head coach of Israel’s national judo team.
Oren Smadja
Smadja rose to prominence in the 1990s when he won an Olympic bronze medal for Israel in Atlanta 1996. After retiring from competitive sports, he led Israel’s male judo team to international success, including Olympic and world championship medals. Known for his demanding discipline and deep commitment to excellence, Smadja is regarded not just as a coach, but as a mentor who has shaped Israeli sports culture. In June 2024, Smadja’s son, Sgt. Maj. Omer Smadja z”l, a fighter in the 9203 Battalion of the Alexandroni Brigade, fell in battle in central Gaza at the age of 25.
Omer Smadja z”l
Minister Regev stated:
“Oren is a true Israeli champion—on and off the mat. Despite the unbearable loss of his son Omer during the war, he showed extraordinary strength, leading the Israeli judo team to record achievements at the Paris Olympics. He is a role model and a source of hope for the entire nation.”
Emily Damari
Shortly after Smadja’s announcement, Regev confirmed that Emily Damari will also light a torch this year. Emily, 28, was kidnapped from her home in Kibbutz Kfar Aza on October 7. During her abduction, she was shot at close range, resulting in the loss of two fingers and serious leg injuries. She returned to Israel after 471 days in Hamas captivity and has since become a leading voice in the campaign to free all hostages.
Regev expressed:
“Emily is an extraordinary Israeli heroine who has touched all our hearts and become a symbol of courage and resilience. Her strength in captivity and determination since her return embody the spirit of the Israeli people. Choosing Emily reflects our deep appreciation for the bravery of former hostages and our ongoing commitment to bringing home the 59 who are still in Gaza.”
Freed Hostages Reunite with Their Families:
More torchlighters are expected to be announced in the coming days.
