On July 27, Israel passed a law officially declaring Victory in Europe Day a national holiday. Israel has always observed V-E Day as a day of national remembrance, but the new designation raises its status.

V-E Day commemorates the day on which the Allies accepted Nazi Germany’s unconditional surrender in World War II. It’s commonly celebrated in Europe and the United States on May 8, when the signing took place in Berlin. But since it was already the next day in the Soviet Union, in Russia it is observed on May 9. Israel has traditionally followed the Soviet tradition of celebrating the event May 9.

Many Soviet Jews fought in the Red Army against the Nazis, and many immigrated to Israel; some are still alive. Moreover, Israel has always acknowledged the decisive role of Soviet soldiers in Germany’s defeat.

According to the new Israeli law, the WWII victory will be given special time in school and army curricula. In addition, every May 9 the Knesset will hold a ceremonial meeting, and the government will hold a state ceremony and a procession in Jerusalem.