Remembering the Victims of the October 7 Terror Attacks by Hamas

Remembering the Victims of the October 7 Terror Attacks by Hamas

With heavy hearts and a collective sense of loss, America struggles to grasp the tragedy that unfolded on October 7, 2023. This day marked a horrendous terrorist attack, resulting in the deaths of more than 1,400 victims, many of whom were innocent citizens, including 45 Americans. How can a nation move forward if it forgets the faces and stories of those who suffered?

Under the auspices of the U.S. Department of State, Hamas has long been classified as a terrorist organization since 1997. Yet, despite this recognition, the pain inflicted by this group resonates far beyond the borders of Israel and the immediate region. The terror that swept through communities that fateful Saturday affected families across the globe, particularly in America, where individuals faced the heartbreaking task of informing loved ones that they would never see their family members again.

Detrimental Impact on American Families

My service as an active-duty FBI agent stationed in Israel from 2020 to 2024 allowed me to witness the deep emotional scars left on American families in the wake of this tragedy. Following the horrific events, the FBI took charge of investigating the deaths and kidnappings of Americans abroad under U.S. law. A particular Presidential Policy Directive places the FBI at the forefront of any investigation involving kidnapped Americans.

During my tenure from October 2023 to mid-2024, my primary mission revolved around the hostage crisis. Collaborating with Israeli counterparts, my colleagues and I sought to gather essential intelligence regarding the victims, push for justice against the Hamas perpetrators, and extend compassion and clarity to the distraught families. While our efforts encompassed victims from various nationalities, we bore a distinct responsibility towards our fellow Americans. This mission continues with undeterred commitment.

A Nationwide Awareness Gap

Returning to the United States brought a stark realization; many Americans remain unaware of the profound suffering endured by their fellow citizens due to the October 7 attacks. Of the 12 Americans abducted by Hamas, it is heartbreaking to note that four were killed that day, with their bodies subsequently held hostage. These families have yet to receive their loved ones back for a dignified burial.

Additionally, the tragic story of a young American who was kidnapped and later murdered reveals the extent of violence that persists. He was just 23 when a grenade explosion cost him part of his arm, and then six months later, his life. The average citizen tends to forget moments when two American women were released in late October and two more in November, including a child. There remains ongoing ambiguity regarding the fate of other hostages, while at least one American is believed to be alive but still imprisoned.

Understanding the Wider Context of Hamas Activity

Compounding these painful realities is the broader narrative surrounding Hamas, which has established a presence within the U.S. since the 1980s. The existence of a network engaged in fundraising, lobbying, and dissemination of propaganda is documented through internal Hamas communications and FBI wiretaps presented in various federal criminal cases. This growing awareness challenges the perception that such atrocities are merely distant occurrences.

The Protests and Their Messages

On U.S. college campuses, pro-Hamas protests continue to manifest, with student organizations expressing their allegiance to the group. They wave flags and chant slogans advocating for liberation but often, these chants contain veiled threats to the existence of Israel. Such behavior undermines the sacrifices and suffering of American victims, highlighting a troubling indifference towards their plight.

The freedom of speech in America allows for dissenting views; however, this sentiment should never cross into the realm of glorifying terrorism or belittling the memory of victims. The celebration of suffering inflicted by Hamas cannot coexist with the moral fabric of a democratic society.

Time to Honor the Victims

As a nation, it is crucial to recognize the individuals forever impacted by Hamas’s relentless acts of terror on the day of the attack. While protests may serve as outlets for grievances, they must not become platforms for celebrating horror at the expense of the innocent. Education and awareness are paramount.

The 45 American lives lost must never be forgotten. We must remember victims like Edan Alexander, the sole American believed to be still alive, facing unimaginable conditions in Gaza. Similarly, the bodies of four deceased Americans, including Itay Chen, Omer Neutra, Gad Haggai, and Judi Weinstein, remain in the grips of Hamas—a painful reality for their families waiting in despair.

Call for Collective Outrage

A shared responsibility exists in ensuring that the memory of those lost is preserved. The narrative surrounding the October 7 attacks should not diminish over time. As Americans, we need to unite in recognizing the ongoing suffering of those impacted by these events. The call to action is not only to remember but to honor the memory of the victims by advocating for justice and support for their families.

In light of these events, America must re-evaluate its connection to global issues. Where does our collective outrage reside? With each day that passes, the stories of innocent victims fade, but the need for justice remains. Let us not forget this fundamental truth as we move forward.