Controversy Surrounds Memorial Day Events in Israel

The Israeli government ignored a request by the organization representing bereaved families of soldiers to discuss changing the placements of ministers at Memorial Day ceremonies to avoid scenes of protests. The prospect of the political battle over proposed changes to the judiciary spilling into cemeteries and wreath-laying ceremonies on Monday night and Tuesday has sparked concerns that such activities could offend families and harm the sanctity of the day. Public figures have increasingly urged the public to keep politics out of the solemn day.