Israelis mark three years since Hamas attack that set off Gaza assault

Israel commemorates three years since Hamas's Oct 7, 2023 attack on Wednesday, less than a month before elections. The deadliest day in Israeli history saw 1,221 fatalities, according to an AFP tally using official Israeli data. Hamas fighters breached the border, launching an assault that included gunfire, rockets, and grenades, leading to the abduction of 251 hostages, 44 of whom died.

Commemorative events are taking place throughout the day, with memorial services at Kibbutz Kfar Aza, where 64 residents were killed, and the Nova music festival site, where over 370 people were killed and multiple hostages taken. Families are organizing a gathering in a Tel Aviv park. Security is heightened due to intelligence suggesting Hamas may attempt attacks against Israeli troops in Gaza on the anniversary.

Israel's defence minister announced the military is on high alert in response to these threats. The state memorial ceremonies were held on Monday, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirming Israel's stance against Hamas rule in Gaza and vowing to continue targeting those involved in the attack or holding hostages. The military offensive against Gaza, which began in retaliation for Oct 7, has devastated much of the territory, resulting in over 74,200 deaths, according to Gaza's health ministry.

Three years on, the humanitarian situation remains dire, with hundreds of thousands still living in tents. Israel's control over Gaza remains strong, and the political and reconstruction process in the war-torn territory remains stalled.