Australia news LIVE: Hockey says corruption flourishing Washington, Israelis mourn October 7 attacks

Three years after the Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023, Israelis paid tribute to the victims and survivors of the devastating assault. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the nation, acknowledging the longing for their dear ones and facing calls for an independent state inquiry into security failures. In response to the attack, Israel launched a military offensive in Gaza, resulting in over 74,200 deaths, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.

At a memorial site near Kibbutz Renim, bereaved families and survivors gathered to honor the 378 people killed at the Nova dance festival and those held hostage. Witness testimony described the horrifying events, including shooting, sexual abuse, and torture of festival-goers. Forty-four people were kidnapped, with 25 eventually released from Gaza.

Former Israeli footballer Shlomo Sharf paid tribute to his granddaughter, May Naim, and former hostage Yarden Bibas spoke of his family members who were taken hostage and later killed. Kibbutz Kfar Aza remembered 64 residents and 19 hostages, while residents of Kibbutz Renim, destroyed during the attack, struggled to rebuild their lives.

IDF troops who fought bravely during the raid were praised, and Prime Minister Netanyahu lit a memorial candle at Tel Aviv's Yarkon Park. Netanyahu vowed to "complete the mission" and continue settling the score with the murderers. Anti-government protesters held a moment of silence and displayed banners expressing their pain and dissatisfaction with Netanyahu.

Critics, including former senior officials and bereaved families, called for an independent commission of inquiry and an end to Netanyahu's personal responsibility. The impact of the attacks extended beyond Israel, affecting Jewish communities worldwide. World leaders, including the UK Prime Minister and EU President, expressed solidarity with the Israeli people and called for a durable peace based on a two-state solution.