On October 7, 2024, U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III marked the one-year anniversary of Hamas’s brutal terrorist attack on Israel, reflecting on the deep losses experienced on that day. The attack, which coincided with the Jewish holiday of Simchat Torah, resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 civilians, including over 40 Americans, and the abduction of 251 hostages, 12 of whom were U.S. citizens.
In his address, Secretary Austin expressed heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families and reaffirmed America’s unwavering support for Israel. He underscored that the October 7 attack was the deadliest day for the Jewish people since the Holocaust, emphasizing the shared grief and the continuing efforts to free those still held hostage by Hamas. Austin assured the families that the U.S. would not rest until every captive is returned home.
Austin also outlined the Pentagon’s swift actions following the assault. Under President Biden’s leadership, the Department of Defense ramped up security assistance to Israel, deploying military forces to the Middle East to deter Iranian aggression, support Israel’s defense, and protect U.S. personnel in the region. He highlighted the successful collaboration between U.S. and Israeli forces in countering missile strikes from Iran, as well as the ongoing strategic military operations.
Focusing on the broader impact of Hamas’s actions, Austin described the group as a ruthless terrorist organization that continues to use civilians as shields, increasing the humanitarian toll in Gaza. He stressed the moral and strategic responsibility to protect civilians during armed conflicts and discussed the importance of ongoing conversations with Israeli leaders about minimizing harm to Palestinian civilians, which is essential for achieving lasting peace and stability.
Austin extended condolences to Palestinians who have lost their lives in Gaza and the West Bank, as well as to the families of American citizens who were killed in the conflict. He reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to a two-state solution, envisioning a peaceful coexistence between Israelis and Palestinians as part of a future of regional stability and Arab-Israeli normalization.
Concluding his remarks, Austin emphasized the United States’ steadfast dedication to Israel’s security and its efforts to combat terrorism and deter further threats from Iran. He called for continued work toward resolving the conflict and delivering humanitarian aid to those in need, stressing that this day of remembrance should also serve as a call to action for lasting peace in the Middle East.
Secretary Austin’s message was a powerful reminder of the United States’ commitment to supporting its allies and its hope for a future where peace can finally prevail in the region.–News Desk