PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — Monday marked one year since Hamas launched a series of deadly attacks on nearby Israeli towns, igniting the Israel-Hamas war.

Rhode Islanders, along with people across the world , are remembering the lives lost in the events of Oct. 7, 2023, and reflecting on the conflict that has since ensued.

More than 1,200 men, women, and children, including 46 Americans, were killed, and 254 people were taken hostage, among them 12 Americans. In response, Israel launched airstrikes on the Gaza Strip, which resulted in widespread destruction and the deaths of hundreds of civilians.

As of now, more than 41,000 Palestinians in Gaza have lost their lives in the ongoing war, with nearly half of those being women and children, according to the Associated Press . An estimated 100 individuals remain in captivity.

“Throughout the whole year, it’s been just a lot of mourning, a lot of difficult conversations, and a lot of praying,” Adam Greenman, President and CEO of the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island, said.

Over the weekend, groups such as Brown University’s Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) marched through Providence, waving flags and holding signs.

“We’re here to stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people after a year of genocide, after 40,000 Palestinians in Gaza have been murdered, and now as Israel’s violence spreads to Lebanon, we’re here to call attention to that violence,” SJP member Arman Deendar said.

As tensions between Israel and Lebanon continue to grow, President Joe Biden emphasized the importance of avoiding an all-out war.

“We will not stop working to achieve a ceasefire deal in Gaza that brings the hostages home, allows for a surge in humanitarian aid to ease the suffering on the ground, assures Israel’s security, and ends this war,” Biden said in a statement Monday.

Sen. Jack Reed acknowledged Biden’s “stable leadership” throughout the Israel-Hamas war, with hopes of coming to some sort of ceasefire.

“October 7th was a premeditated atrocity on the people of Israel, but also the Jewish community worldwide. Hamas has no respect for the Jewish people or their own people, the Palestinians,” Reed told 12 News.

“A year ago, an unprovoked attack of appalling cruelty and brutality on unarmed Israeli civilians left a mark on our hearts and a stain in the calendar of human infamy. Let us continue to urge a return to a regional peace framework,” Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse said on X.

Both R.I. Congressmen Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo also released statements on X, regarding the anniversary of the Oct. 7, 2023 attacks.

“On this painful anniversary, the United States stands with Israel as it defends itself against terrorism. We remain steadfast in our commitment to lasting peace and stability across the region and for a common future for Israelis and Palestinians with equal measures of security, dignity, opportunity, and freedom,” U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken said in a statement.

Local Events

Peace & Justice for All Candlelight Vigil – Sponsored by TwoADay.org, East Bay Citizens for Peace and No Endless War or Excessive Militarism

What: The event will feature a candlelight vigil to support peace in Israel and Palestine.
Click here for more information.

Where : Memorial Park at South Main and College Streets in Providence

When : Monday, Oct. 7, from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. (rain or shine)

“Remembering October 7th: An Evening for Unity and Hope” – Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island

What : The event will feature prayers led by Israelis living in Rhode Island, personal stories, and testimonies from those affected by the Oct. 7, 2023, attacks. Click here for more information.

Where : Dwares JCC at 401 Elmgrove Ave. in Providence

When: Monday, Oct. 7, from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.

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