JERUSALEM:  Israel readied to mark 70 years since the country’s creation on Wednesday while celebrating its improbable economic success and military prowess, but facing a range of political and security challenges, reports AFP.

The anniversary of the proclamation of the state of Israel by founding father David Ben-Gurion begins at sundown on Wednesday under the Hebrew calendar, but falls on May 14 according to the Western calendar.

The country came to a halt on Tuesday evening to begin marking Memorial Day, dedicated to its fallen soldiers and those killed in attacks, while celebrations will begin later as what Israelis call Independence Day kicks off.

It enters the holiday with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu boosting his warnings over Iran, particularly related to its presence in neighbouring Syria.