Israeli air force to perform flyover ‘salute’ to honor southern residents on Independence Day

“The flyby will…express the IDF’s appreciation to the southern residents for their firm stand and resilience,” said the military statement.

By World Israel News Staff

The Israel Air Force (IAF) flyby on Independence Day is legendary among citizens of the Jewish State.

This year, it takes place just days after the latest barrage of hundreds of rockets was fired by terrorist groups in the Gaza Strip into southern areas of Israel.  As a change of pace, the Israeli military announced that the residents in that region will have the opportunity to enjoy air displays instead of having to run for cover.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said Tuesday that this year’s IAF air formation would include a “salute” to the residents of the southern part of the country who have endured the massive aerial attacks.

“As part of the flyby, it has been decided by the air force to conduct an additional flyby for the residents of the Gaza vicinity and southern localities,” said an IDF statement.

Independence Day will be marked in Israel on Thursday.

“The flyby will pass over the Gaza vicinity and southern communities and will express the IDF’s appreciation to the southern residents for their firm stand and resilience which they exhibited during the days of the latest fighting and over the years,” the IDF said in a tweet.

“IDF soldiers and commanders salute the residents of the Gaza vicinity and southern localities,” said the statement.

The flyby includes the presentation of aerial formations in the skies of Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and Haifa, and many other local areas.