Los Angeles — April 30, 2026 — Tonight, the Consulate General of Israel to the Pacific Southwest hosted its annual celebration of the State of Israel’s anniversary of independence. This year, “Israel at 78th” brought together elected officials, diplomats, dignitaries, and community leaders, organizations and members to highlight the State’s 78 years of achievement and global contribution. This year’s event was especially poignant considering the historic achievements of the U.S.-Israel strategic alliance taking unprecedented coordinated military action to deter the threat of the Iranian regime to the region and the world.
The program featured remarks from Consul General Israel Bachar. He stated: “In just 78 years, Israel is now a regional superpower, fighting together with the greatest superpower on earth, against the radical Iranian regime that is threatening the free world with nuclear ambitions.”
The evening also demonstrated the true bipartisan solidarity and friendship between the U.S. Congress and the State of Israel. Republican Congressman Juan Ciscomani (AZ-06), likewise Democratic Congressman Brad Sherman (CA-32), both gave remarks during the event.
The bipartisanship both members expressed extends to the state and local governments as well. The Consulate General awarded five elected officials from across the region for their contributions to the U.S.-Israel relationship over the last year. The elected officials recognized were Arizona Representative David Livingston, outgoing Colorado State Senator Dafna Michaselson Jennet, California State Senator Henry Stern, Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman, and San Luis Obispo County District Attorney Dan Dow.
The evening also paid tribute to the contributions of the Israeli and United States militaries, featuring reserved and retired Air Force soldiers and pilots from both nations.
The formal program was followed by a celebration of Israel’s cultural contributions, including a headline performance by acclaimed Israeli-Iranian artist and actress Liraz Charhi.
The Consulate General of Israel extends its gratitude to the Saban Family Foundation, StandWithUs, Friends of the Israel Defense Forces, the Israel American Council, and the Iranian-American Jewish Federation for helping make the evening possible. Roz Rothstein, co-founder and CEO of StandWithUs, one of the partnering organizations, said:
“StandWithUs is honored to be a part of celebrating Israel’s 78th birthday, following over two and a half years that demanded unparalleled strength and resilience. To Israel and its citizens: We stand with you, with full hearts and souls. We stand with Israel knowing they have faced so many emotional and physical tests—and have not only survived, but continue to lead the world in happiness, innovation, and so much more. This is a very special birthday—a testament to resolve and success. Am Yisrael Chai!”
