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Israelis mark the third anniversary of the 7 October attacks as Gaza remains devastated
Overview
Israelis have held memorial events to mark the third anniversary of the Hamas-led attacks on 7 October 2023, which resulted in about 1,200 deaths and 251 hostages taken. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faced ongoing criticism and protests over security failures and the lack of a state inquiry. Meanwhile, Gaza continues to suffer from severe destruction, ongoing military strikes, and dire humanitarian conditions despite a ceasefire agreed nearly a year ago.
Key points
- Israelis commemorated the third anniversary of the 7 October 2023 attacks, visiting memorial sites such as the Nova festival location and kibbutzim like Kfar Aza.
- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel has settled the score with attackers, while anti-government protesters in Tel Aviv demanded truth and accountability regarding security failures.
- Israel's subsequent military offensive in Gaza has killed more than 74,200 people, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.
- Despite a ceasefire agreed almost a year ago, living conditions for Gaza's 2.1 million residents remain dire, with an estimated 80% of structures destroyed or damaged.
- International leaders, including figures from the UK, Germany, the US, and the EU, marked the anniversary with messages of solidarity and calls for lasting peace.