Israelis mark three years since the 7 October Hamas attack
Israel and other countries held memorial events on the third anniversary of the Hamas-led attack. Gaza remains in dire humanitarian conditions, and the ceasefire has not brought lasting peace.
Memorial events were held across Israel on the third anniversary of the Hamas-led attack of 7 October. At Kibbutz Kfar Aza, where 64 residents were killed and 19 abducted, crowds gathered at the cemetery. Community leader Zion Regev said most surviving residents had not yet returned to their homes because of trauma, calling it a very emotional and difficult day.
A national ceremony took place at Tel Aviv's Yarkon Park, where Ido Yakir, reported to have helped repel attackers at Kibbutz Magen, spoke. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he had lit a memorial candle for every victim and vowed to keep settling the score with those responsible. On Monday he said Israel had killed 4,000 of the 6,000 Palestinians who crossed from Gaza that day.
In Tel Aviv, anti-government protesters dyed the fountain in Dizengoff Square red and briefly blocked a main highway for a moment of silence. Although many senior defence and security officials have resigned or been dismissed, no independent commission of inquiry has been created. Netanyahu rejects personal responsibility and refuses a state inquiry led by the Supreme Court, arguing the judiciary would be biased against him. Einav Zangauker, whose son Matan was held in Gaza, said efforts were being made to make people forget, but that she would demand the truth.
International reaction
Vigils were also held abroad, including at Berlin's Brandenburg Gate. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz called the attack a profound rupture and urged greater resolve against antisemitism. UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham told British Jews that the country stands with them. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the EU was ready to help turn the fragile ceasefire into a durable peace based on a two-state solution.
Situation in Gaza
This is the first anniversary with no hostages left in Gaza, yet the US-brokered ceasefire from last year has not brought peace. According to Gaza's health ministry, more than 1,460 people have been killed since it took effect, while the Israeli military says at least seven of its soldiers have died. The UN estimates that about 80% of structures have been destroyed or damaged and that 1.2 million people live in tents or shelters. Hamas issued a statement calling the attack a historic milestone.
