The White House on Monday marked one year since Hamas operatives attacked civilian targets inside Israel with somber events and prayers for the victims, with Vice President Kamala Harris saying the world has a responsibility to defend Israel and all Jewish people.
American officials and lawmakers recognized the anniversary at events, on social media and in statements that professed Washington’s support for Israel. Since the Hamas attack that killed 1,200 Israelis and injured 8,700 more, the Jewish state has waged a brutal war in Gaza that has killed 41,000 people and injured more than 96,700 as of Oct. 3, according to the Hamas-run Gaza Ministry of Health.
President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden marked the anniversary Monday at the White House, joined in the Blue Room by Rabbi Aaron Alexander of Adas Israel Congregation.
