Israel marks 3 years since Hamas attacks
Communities shattered by massacres are torn between rebuilding their lives and remembering lost friends and relatives. The country is still seeking answers and accountability for the tragedy.
Global Newsflix 2 min read
Three years have passed since Hamas militants launched a wave of attacks on Israeli kibbutzim, border towns, military bases, and music festivals, killing 1,209 people and taking 251 hostages. Keith Siegel, who was held captive in Gaza for 484 days, says he is still haunted by the memories of his ordeal.
Siegel and his wife Aviva were among those taken captive on October 7, 2023. He has been trying to process his experiences and store intelligence that could help Israeli forces free other hostages. However, he finds it challenging to convey the trauma he endured.
The cemetery at Nir Oz contains fresh headstones marking the lives lost on that day. Caretaker Shlomo Margalit points to the graves of his old friends, founding members of the kibbutz who came to Nir Oz from Haifa with him in the 1950s.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to kill every terrorist involved in the massacre. However, Israel's president, Isaac Herzog, has called for an investigation into the lapses that allowed Hamas to commit the atrocity.
Gen Eyal Zamir, the chief of the Israel Defense Forces, has also acknowledged the failure of October 7 and the need to take responsibility for it. Netanyahu has prevented the establishment of an independent commission of inquiry, citing concerns that it would be politically biased against him.
Danny Rahamim, a resident of Nahal Oz, has a tattoo on his forearm with the phrase 'the way to hope'. He believes that hope is essential for his community's future and argues that a change of government is necessary to ensure Israel's safety.
Rahamim's community was attacked by Hamas terrorists on October 7, 2023, resulting in the deaths of 15 people and the abduction of eight others. He wants the Israeli military to stay in Gaza to protect his community.
Key facts
- 1,209 people were killed in the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023
- 251 people were taken hostage, with 85 dying in Gaza
- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to kill every terrorist involved in the massacre
- Israel's president, Isaac Herzog, has called for an investigation into the lapses that allowed Hamas to commit the atrocity
Three perspectives
Neutral
The anniversary of the Hamas attacks has sparked a mix of emotions in Israel, with some seeking answers and accountability, while others are focused on rebuilding their lives. The country's leadership is divided on how to move forward. The international community is watching the developments closely.
Positive
Despite the trauma and challenges, many Israelis are holding on to hope for a better future. Communities are coming together to support each other and rebuild their lives. The Israeli military's presence in Gaza has provided a sense of security for some residents.
Negative
The lack of accountability and investigation into the lapses that allowed Hamas to commit the atrocity has sparked criticism and frustration. Netanyahu's prevention of an independent commission of inquiry has raised concerns about political bias and the need for transparency.
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