US Families of Oct. 7 Victims Hold Memorial in Washington

Families of American citizens murdered, kidnapped, and injured in the Hamas attacks of October 7, 2023, gathered at the U.S. State Department in Washington for a special memorial ceremony. The relatives of the victims called for justice against those responsible for planning and executing the massacre, emphasizing that accountability should transcend political considerations.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick hosted the event, which honored Americans whose lives were irrevocably changed by the attacks. Participants presented data indicating that nearly 50 Americans were killed and dozens more were injured. The speakers also remembered the hostages taken to Gaza and American soldiers who fell defending them.

"October 7 was not just a tragedy for Israel," said Avi On, a cousin of Carmela Dan, who was murdered with her granddaughter Noiya Dan in Kibbutz Nir Oz. "Nearly 50 American citizens were murdered, and dozens more were injured. These were our loved ones, people with families who loved them and futures that were stolen from them. We are here to ensure their stories are heard, their memories are honored, and those responsible for their murders are brought to justice."

Among those present were Robi and Hagit Chen, parents of Itai Chen, whose body was taken to Gaza. The families who traveled to Washington stated their commitment to continue sharing their stories to ensure their loved ones are not forgotten and demanded the prosecution of everyone involved in the planning, execution, and support of the murders of U.S. citizens.