US president calls himself a 'lifelong friend and supporter' of Jewish state, says he's working with Jerusalem to 'create a more prosperous, peaceful, and integrated Middle East'

Central Bureau of Statistics releases figures ahead of nation's 75th anniversary; 183,000 babies born last year, and 28% of population is below age of 14

Government's planned overhaul of judiciary has split the nation so deeply that the rift is sometimes felt even within families

Transportation minister, who is tasked with coordinating event, reportedly also suggested TV networks cut to recording of rehearsal if incidents occur during ceremony

Foreign pilots to participate in Air Force airshows on Wednesday from Tiberias in north, along Mediterranean coast, through Jerusalem, to IAF base in south

In TV interview blitz ahead of Memorial Day, president expresses hope ongoing compromise talks on judicial overhaul will bear fruit

Minister overseeing ceremony said set to phone opposition leader to appeal for message of unity ahead of nationally-broadcast event

Communities ponder whether they can - or should - put aside the political controversy rocking the Jewish state as they celebrate its independence this year

National protest organizers say no plans to demonstrate against judicial overhaul at ceremonies, but fears persist that bereaved families could clash with coalition politicians

Soldiers' commemoration organization calls on politicians not to attend events at military cemeteries; Gantz: We must put public debate aside, if only for one day