Recent Events
The past two years of Israeli history are the aftershock and effects of the most destructive single attack against Judaism since the Holocaust. On October 7, 2023, Hamas, a terrorist group out of the Gaza Strip, launched a large-scale surprise attack on Israel from the Gaza Strip, firing thousands of rockets and sending armed militants across the border. The attackers targeted civilian communities, military bases, and a music festival, killing an estimated 1,195 people, including 736 Israelis, 79 foreign nationals, 379 IDF soldiers, and 38 children. Hamas also took 251 hostages, some of whom are still being held hostage in Gaza. Since that day, Israel has had conflict in Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, Iran, Iraq, Qatar, and, most recently, Tunisia, targeting terrorist groups operating inside or with funding from hostile countries.
Small Wins
Israel has still had wins in this tragic time, achieving 140 diplomatic exchanges and releases, and an additional eight recovered in sanctioned IDF operations. Louis Har was captured with his brother-in-law and three formerly released family members after 52 days. Louis and Fernando were held captive for 129 days until being rescued in an IDF operation in early 2024. He described the “non-stop shooting” as movie-like and painfully emotional. He and Nando (brother-in-law) survived 129 days in a cramped apartment with one pita per day. His interview with Channel 12 revealed the physiological horrors of his captivity.
What’s Next?
Today, on a day of remembrance, Israel is also attempting to look to the future. As this is written, Israeli delegates are raising hopes for a ceasefire with the help of President Trump. In the meantime, there are multiple active IDF operations in the Gaza Strip, including Gaza City. Forty-eight hostages are yet to be returned, 20 of which are assumed to be alive. An entire country is waiting for its hostages, and over a dozen families lie in grief, waiting to bury their loved ones. The people of Israel wait patiently, and the constant airstrikes and threats have made them weary, not afraid.
