Thousands of people gathered in southern Israel on Tuesday to mourn the dead as the nation marked two years since Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack plunged the region into a devastating war, while Israel and Hamas hold indirect talks in Egypt.
The main memorial is being organized by the bereaved families, separate from a ceremony the government will hold on the anniversary next week, according to the Hebrew calendar. The split reflects deep divisions over Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s leadership, which many blame for the failure to secure a ceasefire that would free the remaining hostages held by the militants.
In the Gaza Strip, where Israel’s retaliatory offensive has killed tens of thousands of people and razed entire towns and cities, those who can are fleeing another Israeli invasion of Gaza City, while others are sheltering in place. Many are unable to make the arduous and costly journey south.
What to know:
- Oct. 7 attack: It’s been two years since thousands of Hamas-led militants poured into southern Israel after a surprise barrage of rockets, storming army bases, farming communities and an outdoor music festival. They killed some 1,200 people and abducted 251 others, most of whom have since been released in ceasefires or other deals. 48 remain inside Gaza.
- Trump’s peace plan: The U.S. president’s plan has received wide international backing and raised hopes for an end to the devastating war. Many uncertainties remain, including the disarmament of Hamas — a key Israeli demand — and the future governance of Gaza.
- Indirect negotiations to end war are underway: Peace talks between Israel and Hamas resumed at an Egyptian resort city on Tuesday after several hours of talks Monday. An Egyptian official with knowledge of the discussions said the parties agreed on most of the first-phase terms, which include the release of hostages and establishing a ceasefire. The official spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the private meetings.
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