On the third anniversary of the Hamas attack on Israel, European leaders issued statements remembering those killed and warning about antisemitism. Some also referred to Palestinian civilian deaths in Gaza and the need for a political settlement.
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham said the October 7, 2023 attacks had taken lives in Israel and continued to affect Jewish communities around the world. He cited rising antisemitism in Britain and said the government was funding security for synagogues, schools and community buildings. Burnham also reaffirmed support for a two-state solution in which Israelis and Palestinians could live in peace and security.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz called the attack a turning point, expressed condolences to the families of those killed and urged stronger action against antisemitism. French President Emmanuel Macron recalled that more than 1,200 people had been killed, including 51 French citizens, and said France had not forgotten the victims. Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot was in Israel on the anniversary and visited Hostages Square in Tel Aviv.
Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten’s statement referred not only to the victims of the attack but also to Palestinians killed in Gaza. He described the loss of life as devastating and said violence had brought no relief to grieving families. Geert Wilders, leader of the Dutch right-wing Party for Freedom, sharply criticised Jetten, accusing him of insufficient support for Israel.
Former Slovenian Prime Minister Janez Janša also commemorated those killed and taken hostage, calling for opposition to terrorism and antisemitism. The statements shared an emphasis on remembering the victims and protecting Jewish communities, while some leaders also addressed the continuing consequences of the war for Palestinians.