WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump commemorated the third anniversary of the October 7, 2023, Hamas terrorist attacks on Israel with a strongly worded statement, describing the day as “one of the darkest and most evil days in the history of Israel.”

In the message, Trump recalled that innocent men, women, and children were murdered, kidnapped, and subjected to unimaginable horrors by Hamas terrorists. Approximately 1,200 people were killed and over 240 taken hostage in the deadliest attack on Israel since its founding. He emphasized remembrance of every innocent life taken, honor for survivors and their families, and the hostages who endured captivity.

“I fought relentlessly to bring the hostages home”

Trump highlighted his administration’s efforts, stating: “I fought relentlessly to bring the hostages home, and reunite them with their loved ones, and I did, both the living and the dead!” He closed with: “We will NEVER forget October 7th. We will NEVER forget the victims. And we will always stand against the forces of Terror and Evil.”

“We will NEVER forget October 7th. We will NEVER forget the victims. And we will always stand against the forces of Terror and Evil.”

President Donald Trump, October 7, 2026

White House statement and call with Netanyahu

From attack to ceasefire

The anniversary comes against the backdrop of a U.S.-brokered ceasefire and hostage deal in late 2025 under Trump’s 20-point plan, which led to the release of the remaining living hostages and the return of bodies of the deceased, effectively ending major combat operations in the Gaza war. Select a point on the timeline below.

For Israelis and the families of those lost, the day remains one of mourning. Trump’s message framed the anniversary as both a remembrance and a pledge to confront terrorism wherever it appears.