Following the miraculous victory in the Six Day War, the Rebbe called for recognition of the miracle, and for expression of gratitude to Hashem by increasing in mitzvos observance.

However, someone took this to mean that perhaps the Rebbe was giving room for a change in policy towards Yom Ha’atzmaut, the Zionist Independence Day. This individual even suggested to the Rebbe that the Rebbe’s longtime opposition to saying halel on this day can now be revised.

The Rebbes responded sharply, writing that there is no room for change in approach, especially considering the way the victory has been celebrated.

“After such a miracle, one would expect the celebrations would be by adding in the mitzvos of the one who performed the nes. Instead, we find that it has enhanced the feeling of ‘Kochi v’otzem yodi’ (my own might and the strength of my hand). In fact, even the mesiras nefesh of the fighters is not being emphasized. And this is despite the fact that high-ranking officers have admitted that this was the hand of Hashem…”

The Rebbe continued regarding the minhag of saying halel, stating that these are brachos l’vatala (in vain), and expressed disappointment that “the situation is painful and reckless, where underqualified individuals express halachic opinion, vilify the great rabbonim who have prohibited making the bracha, and disrespect them. And no one seems to care or protest…” 

(Igros Kodesh, Vol 25, p. 257)