Jerusalem– A video of Israeli police playing the Indian National Anthem during Haifa Day celebrations has gone viral, highlighting the warmth of the India–Israel partnership.
The gesture took place at a ceremony marking the 107th anniversary of the Battle of Haifa, where Indian cavalry units played a decisive role in liberating the city during World War I. The event was attended by India’s Ambassador to Israel J. P. Singh, Haifa Mayor Yona Yahav, senior dignitaries, military attaches from several countries, representatives of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), officials from the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC), personnel from the Indian contingent of the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF), and members of the Indian community in Israel.
Israel-India Chamber of Commerce Chairperson Anat Bernstein Reich also shared the video on her social media platforms, amplifying its reach.
In a post on X, the Indian Embassy in Israel wrote: “The Indian Embassy in Israel proudly marked the 107th anniversary of the Battle of Haifa and honored the courage and heroism of the Indian soldiers — the cavalry from Jodhpur, Mysore, and the former Hyderabad — who liberated Haifa in 1918.”
The Embassy added that the “dignified ceremony” reflected the legacy of Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives, a legacy that continues to strengthen the friendship between India and Israel.
Speaking at the event, Ambassador Singh said, “It is a matter of immense pride for me to stand here before you and pay homage to the brave Indian soldiers who during the First World War played a sterling role in the liberation of Haifa on September 23, 1918.”
He further noted, “More than 74,000 Indian soldiers laid down their lives during World War I. Even today, Indian soldiers in the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force continue to serve in Israel in fulfillment of India’s commitments to maintaining international peace and security.” (Source: IANS)
