Israelis Mark Oct. 7 Anniversary as Gaza Struggles in Devastation

Israelis remember the 2023 attack, while Palestinians face ongoing hardship in Gaza. A released hostage shares his story.

Editorial Desk

October 7, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — Netanya, Israel — Israelis observed the third anniversary of the Hamas-led attack that killed over 1,200 people and sparked a devastating war in Gaza, where more than 74,000 Palestinians have been killed.

For many, the day marked a new chapter as all hostages were released, including Elkana Bohbot, who spent 738 days in captivity at the Nova music festival site. He described his ordeal in a dark, damp tunnel and shared how he has rebuilt his life since being freed.

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In Gaza, the anniversary brought no celebrations, as the territory remains in ruins with most of its population displaced. The conflict has also reshaped the Middle East, with Israeli forces occupying parts of Lebanon and Syria, and tensions escalating across the region.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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