Israel is marking the second anniversary of the deadly Hamas-led attacks that claimed the lives of more than 1,200 civilians and soldiers and triggered the ongoing war in Gaza. Commemorative events are being held across the country, including at the site of the Nova music festival — where nearly 400 people were killed — and at Hostages’ Square in Tel Aviv, a central location that has become a symbol of the nation’s anguish and resilience.
The October 7 attacks in 2023 represented one of the deadliest days in Israel’s history and were a key turning point that led to a protracted and devastating conflict in the Gaza Strip. Since then, efforts to secure a lasting ceasefire and the release of Israeli hostages still held by Hamas have continued intermittently.
This week, indirect negotiations between Israeli and Hamas representatives resumed in Egypt, with hopes pinned on a breakthrough. The second day of talks is currently underway in Cairo, mediated by Egyptian officials and supported by international partners.
Indirect talks regarding a ceasefire and the release of the remaining hostages are expected to continue for a second day in Egypt. U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed hopeful optimism about the first day of the negotiations.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has said that the available opportunity for peace should be seized to end the tragedy.
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