Published: October 7, 2024, 07:30h. 

Last updated on: October 7, 2024, 07:30h.

Approximately one hundred residents from the Las Vegas area gathered on Sunday to commemorate the first anniversary of the Hamas terror attacks on attendees of Israel’s Nova Music Festival.

Remembered by all were the 1,200 victims, with over 360 fatalities, numerous others subjected to violence, and many left traumatized by the 2023 terror attack. 250 individuals were taken captive, with 101 still awaiting release.

Sponsored by the Las Vegas Chapter of the Israeli American Council (IAC), the event took place at Las Vegas City Hall.

Support for Hostages

“The nation must stand united in assisting Israel in rescuing the hostages and combating the terrorist threats against them,” stated U.S. Rep. Susie Lee (D, Nev.) during the gathering.

“We honor the memories of those who perished,” added Las Vegas City Councilwoman Victoria Seaman, R. “The lives shattered and the lasting effects of this tragic act of violence on everyone.”

Eitan Gonen, father of captive Romi Gonen, 24, expressed, “She continues to fight for her life, as well as for her fellow hostages. We, her family, stand in solidarity with her.”

“We are weary of seeing her face on banners, T-shirts, or stickers,” Gonen mentioned. “I just want to embrace my daughter, hold her close, and witness her joy once more.”

“I am here because no parent should have to endure the anguish that we, the families of hostages, are enduring.”

Maayan Snapir, granddaughter of captive Oded Lifshitz, a retired Israeli journalist, also spoke out.

“Let us not forget that the hostages awaiting liberation are not just statistics. They are parents, siblings, and friends,” Snapir emphasized.

Historically, the October 7 attack stands as the deadliest incident in modern Israel’s history.

Israel’s Ongoing Struggle

“It would be difficult enough if we were gathered here today to remember events of the past,” mentioned Elan Carr, CEO of the IAC, as reported by the Las Vegas Review-Journal.

“Yet, we are here not only to recall past events, because one year later, Israel continues to defend its right to exist.”

Following the attack, Israeli forces engaged in combat against Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon, and other groups tied to Iran, along with the Iranian military.

Reportedly, tens of thousands of civilians lost their lives in Gaza during the conflict. A rally on the Las Vegas Strip was held to remember them.