The Museum of Tolerance Jerusalem (MOTJ) hosted a landmark celebration last night as the United States marked its rescheduled Independence Day with a blend of music, diplomacy, and celebrating the unbreakable bond between the two countries.
Originally scheduled for July, the event was postponed following the Iranian-Israel war at the end of June. Its revival carried symbolic weight, underscoring that even conflict and rockets cannot shatter ties between Washington and Jerusalem.
Speaking at the event, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated, "The days when terror leaders enjoyed diplomatic immunity are over. Our enemies need to know, from the first days of the founding of the State of Israel, Jewish blood was not spilt in vain. We are in the midst of a campaign, after having dealt blows to every element of this axis of evil.
"None of the perpetrators of the massacre will be left. We will ensure the security of future generations. Together we will stand, together we will fight and with God's help together we will win.”
The event included a live broadcast under the Jerusalem sky at the Museum's amphitheater. The cultural highlight came with acclaimed country singer Lee Greenwood, who performed in Israel for the first time. Adding a lighter, unexpected moment, Ambassador Huckabee joined philanthropist Paul Singer on stage for a rock music set, accompanied by Nashville musicians.
US Ambassador Mike Huckabee spoke with hope, “The Museum of Tolerance Jerusalem is one of the most incredible places for us to gather, one of the world’s most outstanding tributes to what it means to be human beings.”
The decision to hold the celebration at MOTJ reflected the museum’s growing role as both a cultural landmark and ideal setting for high-level diplomatic conversations. Nestled in the heart of Jerusalem, the museum provided a fitting backdrop for a night that honored American independence while reaffirming the strong relationship between Washington and Jerusalem.
The event was held with the participation of senior government officials, ministers, members of Knesset, leading business executives, senior American representatives, and other distinguished guests from Israel and around the world.
What the Museum of Tolerance offers
The Museum of Tolerance Jerusalem is more than a building—it is a world-class institution dedicated to dialogue, mutual respect, and human dignity. It stands as a beacon of hope in the Middle East, shining light across the region as we fight together for democratic values, peace, and tolerance.
The Museum of Tolerance Jerusalem was established as an antidote to the hatred and rhetoric that fuel such violence. It is more than a building—it is a world-class institution dedicated to dialogue, mutual respect, and human dignity. It stands as a beacon of hope in the Middle East, bringing people together from across the globe to advance democratic values, peace, and tolerance.
To date, some 100,000 people have visited the museum and experienced its transformative exhibits and educational programming. Exhibitions include 06:29 – From Darkness to Light which tells the story of brave women who witnessed the horrors of October 7 and Shadow of Love, which photographic testimonies from couples who found love amid war.
Meanwhile, it's School of Civic Discourse and Leadership Academy have some 17,000 pupils enrolled this year – together, they will that will prepare leaders of today and tomorrow to engage in meaningful conversations that foster a more tolerant world.