Israeli Embassy honours Georgians’ stand for freedom on April 9 anniversary

The embassy of Israel to Georgia on Thursday commemorated the anniversary of the April 9, 1989 tragedy and the subsequent restoration of Georgia's independence.

In a social media message, the embassy expressed deep respect for the resilience of the Georgian people and highlighted the shared values that bind the two nations together.

“On April 9, we honour the courage and steadfastness of the Georgian people on the path to defending freedom and national dignity. Freedom and statehood are the fundamental values that unite our two nations and our histories. The embassy of Israel in Georgia pays tribute to the memory of those who heroically stood for Georgia's independence on April 9, 1989. Their sacrifice continues to inspire and will never be forgotten”, the message noted.

On April 9, 1989, thousands of demonstrators gathered in front of Georgia’s parliament building in Tbilisi, demanding independence from the Soviet Union and protesting Moscow’s policies.

In the early hours of the morning, Soviet troops moved in to disperse the crowd using force, including batons, tear gas, and military vehicles. The operation resulted in the deaths of 21 civilians - most of them young women - and left hundreds injured or affected by toxic gas exposure.

The tragedy became a turning point in Georgia’s independence movement, strengthening public resolve against Soviet rule. Exactly two years later, on April 9, 1991, Georgia formally declared the restoration of its independence. Nowadays, April 9 is observed annually as a day of remembrance and national unity, honoring those who died in the struggle for freedom.