October 7 marks a somber anniversary as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza deepens. One year ago, Hamas launched an attack on Israel, resulting in over 1,100 deaths and approximately 250 captives. In response, Israel declared war on Gaza, leading to more than 41,000 fatalities, with countless families facing starvation amid severe shortages of food and water.
Commemorative events were held across Israel, including a gathering at the site of the Nova music festival, where families and friends honored the victims of the attacks. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu noted that Israel is facing threats on multiple fronts, including from Iran and its affiliates, such as Hezbollah and Hamas. Israeli President Isaac Herzog referred to the October 7 attacks as a “scar on the face of the Earth,” calling for international support as he laid a wreath and lit memorial candles.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot participated in a ceremony in southern Israel to mark the anniversary. Following the event, he is set to meet with his Israeli counterpart, Israel Katz, before traveling to Ramallah in the occupied West Bank. He will also make a statement in Reims to honor the families of French victims of the attack.
Tensions have recently escalated between the Israeli government and France, particularly after President Emmanuel Macron called for a halt to arms deliveries to Israel in light of ongoing bombings in Gaza and military operations in Lebanon.
On this anniversary, Israeli airstrikes on Gaza intensified, targeting what the military described as Hamas “targets and launchers.” Reports from the Palestine Red Crescent Society indicate that a recent strike on the Bureij refugee camp killed three and injured several others.
As the conflict continues, thousands around the world have rallied in support of Palestinians in Gaza, drawing attention to the worsening humanitarian situation ahead of this tragic anniversary.