Hoyle statement on one-year anniversary of October 7th attack
WASHINGTON, DC— Today marks one year since Hamas’ brutal massacre. Hamas murdered more than 1,200 Israelis, took 251 hostages - including American citizens - and perpetrated horrific acts of sexual violence against civilians. The violence unleashed on October 7 has spiraled out of control, engulfing innocent Israelis and Palestinians who’ve had their lives upended and families torn apart. The extent of the suffering cannot be overstated – Holocaust survivors have found themselves once again under attack, and civilians in Gaza have endured unimaginable pain as Israel has waged its military campaign against Hamas this past year. A necessary first step in ending this crisis and securing a negotiated ceasefire is for Hamas to release all remaining hostages. After 365 long days, both Israelis and Palestinians deserve a chance at peace.