Israelis mark three years since Hamas attack as all hostages return
Israelis gathered to mark three years since the Hamas-led attack of 7 October 2023, which killed 1,200 people and saw 251 taken hostage. Memorials at the Nova festival site, kibbutzim and other locations reflected a new stage of mourning: this is the first anniversary since all hostages returned.
The attack led to a war that has devastated Gaza, where tens of thousands have been killed and about two million people face dire conditions, many living in tent camps amid widespread destruction. Despite a ceasefire deal reached nearly a year ago, Israeli strikes continue, while Israeli forces also occupy parts of southern Lebanon and tensions involving Iran and the United States have shaken the wider region. Former hostage Elkana Bohbot, freed after 738 days, described his captivity and spoke of rebuilding his life with his family.
- Israel marks three years since the 7 October attack.
- All hostages have returned, as families gather to mourn.
- Gaza’s two million residents continue to face severe hardship.
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On 7 October 2023, Palestinian militant group Hamas carried out a major attack on Israel that killed approximately 1,200 people, mostly civilians. The assault saw 251 people taken hostage into Gaza.
The attack triggered a major Israeli military response that has devastated Gaza, resulting in tens of thousands of deaths and widespread destruction. The conflict has extended to southern Lebanon, raising tensions with Iran and other countries.
By the third anniversary, all hostages have been returned, yet the war continues and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza persists. The events have deeply affected Israeli society and continue to influence the wider region.
Both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
The October 7 attack killed over 1,200 Israelis and saw 251 taken hostage, representing an unprecedented trauma and violation of fundamental rights. Israel's military response was necessary self-defence, and the successful return of all hostages represents a critical achievement. Israelis have legitimate security concerns about armed groups and the right to protect their citizens, and marking this anniversary reflects genuine collective grief rather than military victory.
The case against
Whilst acknowledging the October 7 tragedy, critics argue the military response caused vastly disproportionate suffering, with tens of thousands killed in Gaza and two million facing dire humanitarian conditions. The continuation of strikes despite a ceasefire deal and occupation of southern Lebanon suggests military objectives have expanded beyond self-defence, raising questions about proportionality under international law. They contend that the scale of civilian destruction and ongoing regional instability indicate this approach perpetuates conflict rather than achieving lasting security.
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Originally published by Daily Mail as “Israel marks third anniversary of October 7 atrocity, with tearful mourners gathered at Nova festival site and across the nation”.