Harris, Trump, and Biden to Hold Separate Events to Mark Anniversary of October 7 Attacks on Israel
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On Monday, Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump will attend separate events to mark one year since Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel.
This attack led to a major military response from Israel, which has since escalated into a conflict that could spread across the region. Meanwhile, President Joe Biden will light a memorial candle at the White House to remember the victims.
Biden will be joined by First Lady Jill Biden and a Rabbi in the White House’s Blue Room, where they will light a Yahrzeit candle in a ceremony that will only be covered by a small group of reporters.
Vice President Harris will honor the victims at the Naval Observatory, her official residence, by planting a tree with her husband, Doug Emhoff.
Harris is expected to give a speech, reaffirming her support for Israel’s security and the need to prevent attacks like last year’s. Emhoff, who is Jewish, will also attend an event organized by the American Jewish Committee, where he will recite a prayer.
Former President Trump will attend a remembrance event at his golf resort in Miami. His campaign said the event will honor victims of antisemitic violence worldwide.
Trump is expected to criticize Biden and Harris for their handling of the situation, accusing them of allowing “Iranian-backed groups” to threaten the security of the U.S.
Background
The October 7 attack last year by Hamas resulted in the deaths of around 1,200 people and the capture of more than 240 hostages.
So far, about 150 hostages have been freed or rescued, while 97 remain in Gaza, including 33 who are thought to be dead. In response to the attack, Israel launched airstrikes on Gaza and began a ground invasion, leading to more than 42,000 deaths, according to Gaza’s health ministry.
Recently, fighting between Israel and the Iran-backed group Hezbollah has increased along Israel’s northern border. In response, Israel started a large military operation in Lebanon.
Despite international calls for a ceasefire, Israel has refused and continues its operations. The conflict has caused widespread destruction and displacement.
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