Statement by President von der Leyen on the one-year anniversary of the 7 October 2023 acts of terror against Israel

On 7 October 2023, the world awoke to horrifying images of unspeakable savagery, scenes that will remain etched in our minds forever.

There can be no justification for Hamas' acts of terror. I condemn once again, and in the strongest possible terms, those barbarous attacks.

They brought immense suffering not only upon the people of Israel, but also upon innocent Palestinians. On this tragic anniversary, I want to honour the memories of the victims. The European Union stands with all the innocent people whose lives have been shattered to the core since that fateful day.

We reiterate our call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, for the unconditional release of all hostages and for an end to the conflict. We support the ongoing diplomatic efforts to reach a comprehensive agreement.

One year on, the humanitarian situation in Gaza is appalling. The European Union will keep doing its utmost to mobilise financial assistance and facilitate deliveries and distribution of humanitarian aid, to the Palestinian people, and now also in Lebanon.

Hamas' terrorist attacks on Israel ignited a spiral of violence which has brought the entire region to a state of extreme tension and volatility.

All parties must act responsibly, with restraint, and engage to de-escalate the current tensions.

While we address the immediate crisis, the European Union is ready to help prepare for the day after. We will work in support of all efforts to set the conditions for a durable peace, leading to a two-state solution, where Israel and Palestine coexist side-by-side in peace, with security for both. It's the only viable path forward, to finally end the suffering.

Today our hearts are also with the Jewish communities across the world. Antisemitic incidents are again rising sharply. We must collectively fight this evil wherever it spreads – including online. We will keep implementing and update as necessary our Strategy on combating antisemitism and fostering Jewish life. I will devote more resources to this goal. Everyone should be free to profess their faith in our Union. We take pride in our diversity. We must protect it at all costs.