US State Department Hosts Memorial for October 7 Victims, Families Demand Accountability

Families of American citizens murdered, kidnapped, or injured in the Hamas attacks of October 7th gathered at the U.S. State Department for a memorial ceremony honoring their loved ones. During the event, they called for the perpetrators of the massacre to be brought to justice and urged Congress to establish a committee to investigate the killings of American civilians. The ceremony was hosted by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, and his wife, Alison Lutnick. According to the hosts, the event aimed to honor the lives of the Americans who perished and acknowledge the families who continue to live with grief and loss.

The families stated that nearly 50 American citizens were murdered and dozens more were injured in the October 7th attacks. They also noted that additional Americans were abducted to Gaza, and American soldiers were killed defending Israel. "October 7th was not just a tragedy for Israel, but also for American families," the statement read. The relatives, who traveled to Washington to share their stories and ensure their loved ones are not forgotten, demanded that those who planned, executed, and supported the murder of American civilians be prosecuted. They emphasized that the fight for justice should transcend politics.

"Nearly 50 American citizens were murdered and dozens injured. These were our loved ones, people who were loved and whose futures were stolen from them. We came here to ensure their stories are heard, their memories are honored, and those responsible for their murders are brought to justice," said Avi On, a cousin of Carmela Dan. The families expressed gratitude to the U.S. administration for recognizing the American victims and for holding the ceremony, hoping it would help the American public understand the long-term impact of the massacre on American families and the importance of ensuring these crimes are not forgotten or left unaddressed.

"The families will continue to tell the stories of their loved ones and ensure their memories remain alive," the statement continued. "After more than 1,000 days of waiting for the Israeli government to provide answers on how October 7th happened, perhaps we can get answers from an American investigative committee." Roi Chen, father of Sergeant Itai Chen, who fell in battle on October 7th, was abducted to Gaza, and his body was returned for burial in Israel after 760 days, stated: "The struggle of all the families of the fallen is to be seen and for their loved ones to be remembered. After the President invited the living hostages last year, it is good that the administration invited and honored the families of the fallen close to this year's October 7th."