Palestinian militants in Gaza launched a barrage of rockets into Israel to mark the anniversary of the Oct. 7 attack without disrupting a nearby ceremony. Hamas also attacked Israeli forces in different parts of Gaza, leading to retaliatory strikes from the Israeli military targeting Hamas launch posts and underground infrastructure. The fighting highlighted the militants’ resilience despite an Israeli offensive that has killed thousands and displaced much of Gaza’s population. Israel is now at war with Hamas in Gaza, its ally Hezbollah in Lebanon, and has vowed to strike Iran in response to a recent missile attack.
President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris condemned Hamas on the anniversary of the attack, expressing their commitment to securing cease-fire deals in Gaza and Lebanon. Biden expressed sorrow for the lives lost and hostages still held in Gaza, vowing to bring them home safely. Harris emphasized the need for a cease-fire to end the suffering of innocent people and reiterated support for the Palestinian right to dignity, freedom, security, and self-determination. The Israeli military issued evacuation warnings to towns in southern Lebanon as a ground incursion backed by airstrikes continued, expanding to include the coastal town where the U.N. peacekeeping mission is headquartered.
The Israeli military ordered evacuations near Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip after Hamas fired rockets at Tel Aviv, resulting in minor injuries and damage. Hamas’ rocket attack coincided with the anniversary of the Oct. 9 attack that triggered the war. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu commemorated the anniversary, reflecting on the nation’s response to the attack and honoring the fallen, hostages still held, and heroes who defended the country. Australia’s Prime Minister attended a vigil in Melbourne, condemning Hamas’ actions and reaffirming support for the Jewish community, while also facilitating repatriation flights for Australians from Lebanon.
Jordan’s foreign minister criticized Israel’s war with Hezbollah, warning that it may escalate into a full-scale regional conflict. He expressed support for Lebanon’s government initiative and the implementation of U.N. resolutions to maintain peace. Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni visited Rome’s main synagogue to reaffirm Israel’s right to defend itself while denouncing antisemitism and lamenting the devastation in Gaza. Japan expressed condolences on the anniversary of the Hamas attacks and urged parties to comply with international law to achieve a cease-fire. Families gathered in southern Israel to remember the victims of the Oct. 7 attack, with many still grappling with the pain of loss and captivity.
Hezbollah reaffirmed its commitment to support Hamas by fighting Israel along Lebanon’s border, praising Iran and allied groups for their attacks on Israel. Families of hostages announced the death of a captive whose body remains in Gaza, highlighting the ongoing tragedy of the conflict. At the Nova music festival site, families gathered to mourn the victims and hold a moment of silence for those lost in the attack. New Israeli strikes hit Beirut suburbs as Hezbollah claimed responsibility for blasts in Haifa, intensifying the conflict in the region. The situation remains tense as countries and leaders continue to condemn the violence and seek a path towards peace.
