Tel Aviv, Dec. 31 -- Israel's parliament on Wednesday approved a bill establishing a national day to honour Moroccan Jews who immigrated to the country and to remember those who died en route.

Following the vote, Shas party chairman MK Rabbi Aryeh Deri described the law as "the closing of a circle for the glorious Moroccan community." He added, "The time has come for the State of Israel to remember and cherish our dear parents and grandparents, who gave their lives to immigrate to the Land of Israel and continue the tradition and legacy of our father's house." Deri was born in the northern Moroccan city of Meknes and his family moved to Israel in 1968.

The day, set for the 23rd of the Hebrew month of Tevet, coincides with the anniversar...