International News / Middle East
Israelis have marked two years since the Hamas-led October 7 attacks as Israeli and Hamas negotiators continue indirect talks in Egypt aimed at ending the Gaza war.
Israelis across the country have marked the second anniversary of the October 7, 2023 Hamas-led attacks as negotiations over a proposed Gaza peace deal continue in Egypt.
The attacks killed more than 1,200 people in Israel and saw 251 others taken hostage to Gaza. Israel subsequently launched a military offensive in Gaza, where more than 67,000 people have been killed, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.
Memorial events were held across Israel, including at the Nova Music Festival site, where hundreds of people were killed and others taken hostage.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel had demonstrated resilience despite the attack and pledged to pursue the return of all hostages and other stated war objectives.
Meanwhile, Israeli and Hamas negotiating teams held indirect talks in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, focusing on a proposed ceasefire and other elements of a peace agreement.
Key issues include a permanent ceasefire, the exchange of hostages and Palestinian prisoners, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, humanitarian aid and arrangements for post-war governance.
Palestinian officials said the talks remained difficult, with disagreements over Israeli withdrawal maps and guarantees that fighting would not resume after the initial phase of any agreement.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres urged all sides to seize what he described as a historic opportunity to end the conflict.
Despite the negotiations, Israeli air and artillery strikes continued to be reported in parts of Gaza, while hospitals faced severe shortages and growing pressure on medical services.
The anniversary comes as families of Israeli hostages continue to demand their loved ones' return, while Palestinians in Gaza remain concerned that the war could continue despite the diplomatic efforts.
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