Statement by Jan Egeland, Secretary General of the Norwegian Refugee Council, marking one year since the attacks of 7 October 2023:
“Twelve months ago, Hamas and other armed groups carried out appalling acts of violence in Israel, killing 1,200 men, women and children in a brutal attack. A year later, the hostages taken that day continue to be detained, in fear and isolation.
“Today, we repeat our urgent demand for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. We urge governments with influence over Palestinian armed groups to apply all possible pressure to secure their release without further delay.
“The atrocities of 7 October 2023 must be fully investigated, and the responsible held to account.
“It is unacceptable that civilians on both sides have been used as bargaining chips in this conflict.
“There will be no end to the suffering of civilians without an immediate and lasting ceasefire. This violence must end.”
Notes to editors
- According to Israeli sources, more than 1,200 persons were killed directly by members of the various Palestinian armed groups and others (OHCHR).
For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:
- NRC global media hotline: media@nrc.no, +47 905 62 329
“Twelve months ago, Hamas and other armed groups carried out appalling acts of violence in Israel, killing 1,200 men, women and children in a brutal attack. A year later, the hostages taken that day continue to be detained, in fear and isolation.
“Today, we repeat our urgent demand for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. We urge governments with influence over Palestinian armed groups to apply all possible pressure to secure their release without further delay.
“The atrocities of 7 October 2023 must be fully investigated, and the responsible held to account.
“It is unacceptable that civilians on both sides have been used as bargaining chips in this conflict.
“There will be no end to the suffering of civilians without an immediate and lasting ceasefire. This violence must end.”
Notes to editors
- According to Israeli sources, more than 1,200 persons were killed directly by members of the various Palestinian armed groups and others (OHCHR).
For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:
- NRC global media hotline: media@nrc.no, +47 905 62 329