Marking the first anniversary of the events of October 7, 2023, the Russian Embassy in Israel offered condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims, including Russian citizens, affected by the violence. In a statement, the embassy stressed that the current situation in the Middle East is nearing a critical point and requires immediate political resolution.
Reflecting on last year’s attack on Israeli towns, the embassy emphasized that “there can be no justification for terrorist methods, regardless of their motivation.” The statement condemned the terrorist assault, the killing of civilians, and the taking of hostages, including women, the elderly, and children. “We call for the immediate release of all those held, including our fellow citizens, and will continue to make every effort to achieve this,” the embassy said. It also reiterated its stance on the "unacceptability of violence in any form against civilians, regardless of which side they are on."
Addressing the sharp escalation in the Middle East following the October 7 attack, the embassy underscored the urgent need for a peaceful resolution. “We firmly believe that the current situation, which is approaching a catastrophe, must be resolved through political and diplomatic means, with the active involvement of all Middle Eastern nations, the support of the UN Security Council, and other key global players. This is the only way to prevent further suffering for innocent civilians,” the statement read.
Since the escalation of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict on October 7, 2023, over 240 people have been taken hostage in Gaza, where full-scale fighting has continued ever since. In late November last year, a temporary humanitarian pause was agreed upon, lasting several days. According to Israeli authorities, 110 people kidnapped on October 7 were freed during this time, but fighting in the enclave resumed and continues today. Israeli officials estimate that 101 hostages remain in Gaza.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: ErikaWittlieb/Pixabay
Based on TASS materials