Israel Marks 1,000 Days Since October 7 Attack With Memorials and Protests

Israel held commemorations and protests across the country on July 2, 2026, marking 1,000 days since the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack. Events began at 6:29 a.m. local time, the exact moment the attack started.

The October Council, founded by families of victims and hostages, organized many gatherings, including marches, a minute of silence, and demonstrations in front of parliament and near government members' homes. Hostages Square in Tel Aviv was renamed Memory Square for the day.

The October 7 attack killed 1,221 people and took 251 hostages to Gaza, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures.

Israel's military campaign in Gaza has killed more than 73,000 people, the territory's health ministry said. A ceasefire took effect on October 10, 2025. Since the ceasefire, at least 1,053 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza, the health ministry reported.

The Israeli military said it lost five soldiers and one contractor during the same period. Israeli forces occupy nearly 70 percent of Gaza territory. The October Council posted on X that it would not stop until all hostages are returned.

Israel's military chief, Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, stated on June 29 that the day reminds the military of its overall responsibility. "We remember, we learn, and we prepare for the continuation of combat and the many challenges still ahead," he said. Former army chief Gadi Eizenkot posted on X: "1,000 days.

We will still prove ourselves worthy. " Netanyahu's government has refused to establish a state commission of inquiry into the October 7 attack, though polls show broad public support for one. A memorial event was scheduled for 8:00 p.m.

In Tel Aviv's Yarkon Park.