In a poignant display of solidarity, the American Jewish Committee (AJC) organized memorial events in Washington, D.C., and New York to honor the victims of the October 7 terror attack, which resulted in the deaths of nearly 1,200 Israelis and the abduction of around 250 individuals. The events gathered diplomats from over 45 countries, emphasizing the global impact of this tragedy.
Among the notable attendees was Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff, who participated in the Washington commemoration. Emhoff recited a prayer for peace, reflecting on the profound loss experienced by the Jewish community over the past year. U.S. Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield, U.S. Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism Deborah Lipstadt, and Israeli Ambassador to the U.S.
Michael Herzog also addressed attendees, underscoring the enduring significance of October 7.AJC CEO Ted Deutch spoke passionately about how this date has transformed lives within the Jewish community, stating October 7 isn’t just a mournful moment for Israel and the Jewish people. it changed us forever. He highlighted the ongoing vigilance that families maintain regarding their loved ones due to heightened security concerns.
Throughout the events, diplomats heard directly from families of hostages, including Orna and Ronen Neutra, whose son remains captive in Gaza. Their testimonies served as a stark reminder of the human cost of conflict and resonated deeply with those present.
In Washington, D.C., more than 200 diplomats gathered to pay their respects, including representatives from countries such as Argentina, Germany, and Spain. The somber atmosphere was punctuated by shared grief as attendees reflected on the lasting impact of the attack. As memorials unfolded in both cities, leaders reiterated calls for peace and unity in light of ongoing violence in the region.
The events served not only as a commemoration but also as a rallying point for international solidarity against terrorism and a plea for a peaceful resolution to ongoing conflicts. The AJC’s efforts to bring together such a diverse group of diplomats underscore the global commitment to remembering those lost on October 7 while advocating for a future free from violence and hatred.
