Ehud Barak has come under heavy criticism in the past for his spending habits. One of the points of criticism from the State Comptroller was in regards to Yom Ha'Atzmaut party spending.

In addition to the official parties sponsored by the government for the country, different ministries have their own parties as well. The Ministry of Defense has its party the night following Yom Ha'Atzmaut, and Barak spent way too much money last year, and invited way too many high profile guests. At least according to the Comptroller.

In an effort to change, Barak has scaled down this years party massively. He is inviting mostly army people - high ranking officers and commanders, no politicians. The menu will consist of falafel, rather than whatever he served in the past - steak? salmon? The entertainment will include displays of new military equipment such as a tank, drones, Iron Dome demo, etc. And for entertainment he will not be hiring a high profile celebrity singer, as in the past. Rather, he will be bringing in army bands and choirs to entertain his guests.

So, this years party will be very Israeli themed, with guests who have falafels on their shoulders, looking at Israeli military technology while they eat falafel.