Israel Marks Second Anniversary of Oct 7 Attack Amid Intensifying Hostage Negotiations and Gaza War

Israelis are gathering across the country today, Tuesday, October 7, to mark the solemn second anniversary of the devastating Hamas attack that killed approximately 1,200 people and led to 251 hostages being taken from southern Israel. Unofficial commemorations are underway in affected kibbutzim, while a major rally in Tel Aviv is demanding the release of remaining hostages held in Gaza.

This poignant anniversary coincides with renewed hopes for a ceasefire in Gaza, as indirect talks between Hamas and Israel commenced in Egypt on Monday. Negotiators are reportedly discussing the release of all hostages in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and an initial withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza. Though a deal remains elusive, this round of discussions has generated more optimism than previous efforts since the last ceasefire collapsed in March.

The memory of the October 7 attack, the deadliest in Israel’s history, continues to deeply impact the nation. Faces of hostages are still prominently displayed, and communities scarred by the assault remain a stark reminder of the trauma. Just this past Sunday, survivors of the Nova music festival attack attended a memorial alongside former hostages and victims’ families. The official national ceremony of remembrance is scheduled for October 16 at Mount Herzl.

Meanwhile, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza deepens, with Tuesday also marking two years since the start of Israel’s military campaign in the strip. Gaza’s health ministry reports over 67,000 Palestinians killed and 170,000 wounded, with at least 460 deaths attributed to starvation amidst claims of an Israeli blockade – a claim Israel denies. International bodies and human rights groups have raised accusations of genocide, which Israel refutes, asserting its actions are self-defense.

The urgency to secure a deal is palpable, with some commemoration events transforming into rallies urging the government to prioritize the hostages’ return and end the conflict. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed hopes of announcing hostage releases “in the coming days,” while former U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning to Hamas regarding the negotiations’ outcome.

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