One year since the October 7th attacks – Bond statement
Today, Monday 7 October, is the first anniversary of the Hamas attacks in Israel. Bond has released a statement reflecting the events on 7 October 2023 and its repercussions:
As we mark one year since the tragic events of 7 October, we express deep concern for all those affected by violence and displacement in the region. The horrific attacks and kidnappings carried out by Hamas and armed groups claimed over 1,200 Israeli lives, and more than 240 people were kidnapped with 97 hostages still unaccounted for a year later.
In response, continued Israeli military attacks have claimed over 41,600 Palestinian lives, worsening an already dire humanitarian crisis that has gripped the region and disrupted the lives of millions.
The conflict has displaced 1.9 million people in Gaza, while tens of thousands in northern Israel and Gaza’s periphery live as refugees. Over 346,000 internally displaced persons in Lebanon are in urgent need of assistance. Gaza’s health services are overwhelmed, and increased regional tensions threaten peace and security, threatening the livelihoods of Palestinians, Israelis and Lebanese people.
We condemn violence against civilians by all parties and urge all sides to show restraint. We call for strict adherence to international humanitarian law, an immediate ceasefire, urgent release of the hostages, and concrete steps toward lasting peace in the region.
As we reflect on the tragic loss of life on 7 October and over the past year in the region, the international community has a responsibility to advocate for peace, strengthen humanitarian access and civilian protection, and help to create a future in which every community living in the region will be safe.
ENDS.
Notes for editors
- Many of Bond’s member organisations are actively working in the region providing humanitarian assistance to civilians.
- Bond is the UK network for organisations working in international development. Bond unites and supports a diverse network of over 350 civil society organisations from across the UK, and allies to help eradicate global poverty, inequality and injustice.
- For further information or interviews please contact Jess Salter at [email protected] or call 07392972411.
