10/07/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/07/2025 15:26
WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today marks two years since the October 7th attacks, when Hamas terrorists brutally murdered more than 1,200 innocent men, women, and children - including 46 Americans - and took 254 hostages, among them 12 Americans. Two years later, 48 hostages remain in Hamas captivity, including the remains of American citizens Itay Chen and Omer Neutra.
The United States continues to stand with Israel as it defends its people against terrorism and works to eliminate the threat posed by Hamas and Iranian proxies across the Middle East.
The anniversary comes amid a troubling rise in antisemitism worldwide, including across American communities and college campuses. In December 2023, Rep. James criticized college Presidents from Harvard University, the University of Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts Institute of Technology for failing to stand up to disturbing instances of antisemitism that took place on their campuses.
Under the leadership of President Trump and the Trump Administration, America is continuing to lead the efforts to return the hostages, end Hamas's rule in Gaza, and advance a lasting peace in the Middle East.
Congressman John James (MI-10) issued the following statement:
"On October 7, 2023, evil showed its face in Israel. Hamas unleashed unspeakable brutality against innocent men, women, and children - acts of pure terror that the world must never forget. Even now, two years later, innocent hostages remain in captivity. I pray for peace in Israel and across the Middle East. I pray for the safe return of every hostage. And I pray that we, as a nation, never grow numb to evil - whether it's antisemitism on our campuses, in our streets, or on the world stage. We remember. We pray. We will never forget."
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