On the first anniversary of the 7 October attacks by Hamas, families of hostages held in Gaza gathered in Tel Aviv for a poignant memorial.

A moment of silence was observed to honor the victims of the attacks, which claimed the lives of approximately 1,200 people and resulted in 251 individuals being taken hostage.

In a statement reflecting on the ongoing conflict, U.S. President Joe Biden remarked that “far too many civilians have suffered far too much during this year of conflict.” His comments underscore the widespread humanitarian crisis that has escalated since the attacks.

The aftermath of the initial violence has seen a significant toll in Gaza, with reports from the Hamas-run health ministry indicating that nearly 42,000 people have been killed during Israel’s military operations in the region since that fateful day.

On this somber day, new assaults were reported from various fronts, with Israel, Hamas, and Hezbollah all engaging in fresh military actions. From Lebanon, reports indicate a tense atmosphere, with smoke rising from deserted streets in Beirut and Israeli drones constantly buzzing overhead, as noted by our correspondent, Hugo Bachega.

As the world reflects on the events of the past year, the memorial serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing suffering and the urgent need for a resolution to the conflict.