Tens of Thousands Gather in Tel Aviv, UK to Mark 30 Years Since Rabin Assassination

Tens of thousands gathered in Tel Aviv's Rabin Square to mark the 30th anniversary of Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin's assassination, highlighting ongoing political divisions and calls for unity in Israel. Speakers, predominantly from the political left including Opposition Leader Yair Lapid and Democrats Party head Yair Golan, condemned the current right-wing government's rhetoric and policies, linking them to the extremist nationalism that led to Rabin's murder by far-right extremist Yigal Amir. The event underscored concerns about democracy and rising incitement within Israeli society, with calls to reclaim values of peace, morality, and compassion. British progressive Jewish leaders similarly emphasized the importance of unity against populism and the preservation of democracy, reflecting shared concerns across the diaspora. The memorial combined remembrance with urgent appeals for national cohesion and the safe return of hostages from Gaza, echoing Rabin's legacy of peace efforts. The event was the first major commemoration in five years, drawing up to 150,000 attendees and featuring speeches, music, and moments of silence at the exact time of Rabin's death.