Three Years After October 7, Israel Remains Haunted by the Attack as Security Alert Rises

Israel has heightened security measures and issued travel warnings as the country marks three years since the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack.

The Israeli National Security Council, through Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office, warned of possible attacks involving Iran, Hamas and global jihadist groups around the anniversary.

Israeli citizens were advised against travelling to Jordan, Qatar, Somaliland and Egypt, particularly the Sinai Peninsula, amid concerns over potential attacks.

Israelis travelling abroad were also urged to avoid crowded places, demonstrations and situations where their Israeli identity or links to the military and security services could become apparent.

Israeli military, police and Shin Bet chiefs reviewed the security situation and discussed measures to strengthen security and address potential terrorism threats in the coming weeks.

What happened on October 7, 2023?

On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched a surprise attack on southern Israel, with fighters entering Israeli communities and military positions by land while others used paragliders. A music festival was also targeted.

Israeli and international sources put the number of people killed in the attack at around 1,200, while 251 people were taken hostage.

The attack triggered the prolonged war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.

Prime Minister Netanyahu has also warned that Hamas could seek to launch another attack ahead of elections, while saying Israeli authorities were prepared to deal with potential threats.

The war that followed has caused extensive Palestinian deaths, injuries and displacement and created a severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza.