Oct 7 attack: A crime against humanity
In a powerful and moving tribute to lives lost, families shattered, and the enduring spirit of survival, the Embassy of Israel in India commemorated the second anniversary of the October 7, 2023, terror attacks with a heartfelt event in New Delhi. The ceremony brought together Indian dignitaries, members of the diplomatic corps, military veterans, media, and members of the Israel-Indian community to mark one of the darkest days in recent Israeli history and to reaffirm the shared values of resilience, unity, and the unrelenting fight against terrorism.
The attacks, carried out by Hamas militants who infiltrated southern Israel from the Gaza Strip, resulted in the brutal killing of over 1,200 Israeli civilians and security personnel, widespread destruction, and the abduction of hundreds, a tragedy that deeply wounded the nation and sent shockwaves across the world.
Speaking at the event, Israel’s Ambassador to India, HE Mr Reuven Azar, reflected on the enduring pain of October 7 and the path Israel has walked in the two years since.
“Two years have now passed since the brutal terrorist massacre on October 7 – an attack that shook the very fabric of our nation,” said Ambassador Azar. “For 18 years, since the Gaza takeover by Hamas, the terrorist organisation dreamed and planned that moment. They recruited the entire population of Gaza into their diabolical project. Their intention was not only to kill but to send a message to every Israeli that there’s no future for us in our homeland.”
Ambassador Azar acknowledged the profound support shown by the Indian government and people, emphasising the strong bond between the two nations united by shared histories of suffering from terrorism. “We are grateful for the support we received from Prime Minister Modi, the Indian government, and the Indian people. Both countries have suffered from terrorism, and we share the conviction and determination required to confront and defeat it,” he added.
The event’s Guest of Honour, Lieutenant General (Retd) Vinod Khandare, a renowned Indian defence strategist and former Deputy National Security Advisor, delivered a powerful speech that echoed the sentiment of brotherhood between India and Israel. Drawing a parallel between Israel’s October 7 tragedy and India’s own brush with terror during the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, he underscored the common existential threats both nations face. “One of the most outstanding things I always look at Israel for is the national resilience and the contribution of every citizen towards the sovereignty and welfare of the nation,” said Gen. Khandare. “These kinds of attacks — they are not against armies; they are aimed at civilians. They are crimes against humanity. Yet the global response has often been muted. Where are the voices for those killed? What about their human rights?”
He further stressed that both India and Israel, nations with democratic ideals rooted in ancient civilisations, have learned from each other and continue to strengthen their strategic, military, and moral alliance. “Existential threat is something which is common to India and Israel,” he said. “And that is where we both share a common desire — not only to survive but to prosper and become stronger.”
Perhaps the most emotional and harrowing moment of the evening was the presence and testimony of Mr. Avihay Brodutch, a survivor of the October 7 attacks from Kibbutz Kfar Aza in southern Israel. His story brought the raw reality of the attack to the forefront. During the assault, his wife Hagar and their three children — Ofri, Yuval, and Oriya — were abducted by Hamas and taken into Gaza.
His voice trembled as he recalled the scene: “I saw a motorized parachute flying over the Kibbutz, almost above my head. There were terrorists on them holding AK-47s, and my heart just dropped. Over 250 Hamas terrorists swarmed into our Kibbutz… I found myself alone. Some of my friends were killed — some right beside me.”
The world came to know Brodutch through an image that became iconic: him standing silently outside Israel’s Ministry of Defence with a sign that read, “My family is in Gaza.” His quiet plea became a rallying cry for hostage families around the world. After 51 excruciating days, his family was released during a temporary ceasefire. But the physical and emotional scars remained.
“They were starved. They were full of lice. They looked really bad, kept in a closed, locked room,” he said. “After all this, my message for the world is: ‘You should concentrate on healing.’ We wish for the healing of everybody — in Israel, in the world. Peace and quiet. Maybe one day I can go and hug and ask for peace.” His words, filled with heartbreak and hope, resonated deeply with the audience, reminding everyone that behind every headline is a human story — of pain, survival, and yearning for peace. The emotional weight of the evening was softened but not diminished by a special cultural tribute from the Israeli music group ‘Trio4’, who performed evocative songs that captured the spirit of national mourning and hope.
Their renditions of “Keshetavo” (When You Come), “Halev Sheli” (My Heart), and “Shir LaMa’alot” (A Song of Ascents) were more than music; they were laments, prayers, and declarations of faith in the future. Through their melodies, Trio4 connected the sorrow of a nation with the strength of its people, offering a sense of solace and unity.
Currently on tour across India, Trio4 is also collaborating with Indian musicians to foster a cultural dialogue that transcends borders, a testament to the power of music to heal and connect. The ceremony closed with a candlelight vigil in honor of all victims and those still in captivity. Attendees lit candles, prayed, and stood in silent unity. Israelis, Indians, and diplomats alike bonded by a shared belief that terrorism cannot and will not define the future.
“We continue to hold onto hope,” the Embassy stated in a closing message. “Hope for the return of all remaining hostages, hope for healing of those who suffer, and hope for a future where peace is possible.” The commemoration was not only a remembrance of the past but also a reaffirmation of purpose. As Israel and India move forward, their partnership, rooted in shared values, mutual respect, and a collective commitment to confronting the forces of terror, remains stronger than ever.
In the words of Mr. Avihay Brodutch, perhaps the most profound message of the evening: “Maybe one day… I can go and hug and ask for them. This is what I wish for and I hope it’s going to happen.”
