Israel’s flag (adopted 28 October 1948) is a white field with two horizontal blue stripes near the edges and a central blue Star of David. The design echoes the tallit (prayer shawl) and long‑standing Jewish communal symbols. Statute sets proportions (commonly 8:11), stripe widths, and precise Magen David geometry. Protocol regulates public display, half‑masting, and penalties for desecration under the Flag and Emblem Law (1949).
The flag of Israel draws from Zionist iconography that crystallised in the late 19th century and from ritual motifs associated with the tallit. Prior to statehood, Jewish congresses and settlement groups used a banner of white with two blue stripes and a central Star of David, quickly becoming the movement’s de facto emblem.
After the Declaration of Independence on 14 May 1948, the Provisional Council of State resolved to adopt a national flag; on 28 October 1948 a formal decision established the white field, two blue horizontal stripes near the borders, and a central Magen David derived from precise geometry. Subsequent regulations defined a commonly used proportion of 8:11 (and 16:22), stripe widths at roughly one‑tenth of the flag’s width, and the star centred with balanced stroke weight.
The symbolism is straightforward yet layered. White denotes purity and aspiration; blue recalls the tekhelet dye of biblical tradition and connects to the prayer shawl’s stripes; the Magen David identifies Jewish peoplehood and continuity from diaspora communities to the modern state.
Usage is governed by the Flag and Emblem Law (1949) and related orders: public buildings, schools, and military formations raise the flag on Independence Day and memorial days; half‑masting occurs during national mourning; and penalties attach to defacement or insulting treatment. Commercial usage without permission is restricted. Diplomatic missions follow detailed manuals covering precedence with host‑country flags and illumination at night.
The design has remained stable since 1948, providing visual continuity amid political change. In international arenas—sport, diplomacy, cultural exchange—the flag functions as a concise statement of Jewish national identity and state sovereignty, while domestic protocol emphasises respectful handling and consistent manufacture.
In practice, the flag’s disciplined geometry and statutory protections ensure recognisability and dignity wherever it is flown, from municipal buildings to embassies and commemorative ceremonies.