Israel Holds Flyover Saluting Medical Workers

Military jets flew in formation over Tel Aviv’s deserted parks and streets on Wednesday, cheered on from rooftops by flag-waving residents in face masks as Israel marked its independence day under lockdown.

In a normal year, locals would celebrate the day by flocking to beaches and other public spaces for barbecues, and to soak up the sun.

A special feature of the flyovers this year was a multi-city salute to the nation’s medical workers, who have served on the frontlines in the battle against the coronavirus.

Doctors and nurses, many wearing face masks, gathered on the rooftop of Tel Aviv’s Wolfson Medical Center and waved Israeli flags.

“We wish for you and all the citizens of Israel robust and vigorous health and a happy Independence Day,” one of the squadron pilots said in a message to health workers.

In its daylong schedule, the aerobatic squadron of four also flew over Hadassah Ein Kerem hospital in Yerushalayim, Mayanei Hayeshua in Bnei Brak, Rambam in Haifa, Laniado in Netanya, and medical centers in over a dozen other cities.