Statement by the U.S. Attorney General on the Anniversary of the October 7 Terrorist Attacks; Garland: We Remain Committed to Legal Action Against the Perpetrators of This Crime

U.S. Attorney General Merrick B. Garland, on the eve of the anniversary of the October 7, 2023 terrorist attacks by Hamas, described these attacks as one of the deadliest assaults against civilians since the Holocaust and emphasized that the United States remains committed to pursuing legal action against the perpetrators of this crime. Garland stated, "On Monday, October 7, it will be one year since Hamas terrorists killed nearly 1,200 people, including over 40 Americans, and kidnapped hundreds of civilians. This attack is considered one of the largest and deadliest massacres against Jews since the Holocaust." He added that the U.S. Department of Justice has recently unveiled charges against Yahya Sinwar and other senior Hamas leaders, emphasizing the ongoing pursuit of these individuals and those who illegally provide them with material support, stating, "We have targeted all aspects of Hamas's activities, and this mission is not yet over." The Attorney General also referred to domestic concerns, stating that the U.S. Department of Justice will vigorously combat the increasing threats against Jewish, Muslim, Arab, and Palestinian communities in the country. He emphasized that there will be no tolerance for illegal acts stemming from hatred in this country and that the department will act decisively against threats. Garland also highlighted the coincidence of this anniversary with Jewish religious holidays, reaffirming the Department of Justice's commitment to ensuring the safety of the Jewish community in America, stating, "No individual or community should live in fear of violence stemming from hatred, and we will seriously pursue and prosecute all acts and threats of hate." The October 7, 2023 terrorist attacks by Hamas in Israel are recognized as one of the bloodiest and deadliest terrorist attacks in recent decades. In these attacks, nearly 1,200 people, including over 40 Americans, were killed, and hundreds were taken hostage. These attacks prompted a severe international reaction and a commitment from various countries, including the United States, to pursue legal action against the perpetrators and prevent material and military support for terrorist groups. Since then, the U.S. Department of Justice has actively sought the arrest and prosecution of individuals related to these attacks.