* Memories of presidents: Israel's first ever Independence Day President Reuven Rivlin and predecessor Shimon Peres recall the hope, joy and fear that accompanied the establishment of the Jewish state in 1948.
* US concerned Iranian ships may carry arms to Yemen Defense Secretary declines to say whether US might attempt to board Iranian cargo ships, if needed.
* IAF conducts Independence Day flyover Israel Air Force celebrates Israel's 67th anniversary with special aerial show crossing all of Israel.
* New carpets at Dome of Rock spark religious row, rekindle Holy Ark mystery Archaeologists fume as new rugs laid at Jerusalem shrine, covering geometric patterns that some claim point to sacred Temple artifact hidden beneath.
* In cartoons, Arab press expresses anger, fear over Iran nuke deal Political images reflect dismay at US Mideast policy, its rapprochement with Tehran.
* Russia won't supply S-300 missile to Iran soon, minister says Local media cites Moscow's deputy FM as saying gesture alone of removing weapons sales ban was important.
* Report: Shin Bet Threatens Temple Mount Rights Activists ISA agents threaten Return to the Mount activists to cancel an independence rally to the Temple Mount scheduled for Thursday night.
* World Bible Contest: Eyal Yitzhak Matas crowned winner Matas, 15, from Rehovot, was declared winner of traditional competition on Bible book, after head to head battle with Israeli contestant.
* 8,345,000 people living in Israel Ahead of country's 67 anniversary, Central Bureau of Statistics figures reveal Israel's population increased by some 162,000 people since last Independence Day; number of people who made aliyah in past year stands at 32,000.
* Syrian opposition group to Israel: Next year we celebrate Independence Day in Damascus The Syrian people are looking forward to establish relations with Israel, says Free Syria Movement.