Nj israel commission demands release of hostages as gaza war reaches 700 days

Trenton, NJ – The New Jersey-Israel Commission earlier this month marked 700 days since the October 7, 2023 terrorist attack in Israel, renewing its call for the immediate release of all hostages still held in Gaza.

The attack, which took place during the Jewish festival of Simhat Torah, left more than 1,200 dead and over 250 kidnapped by Hamas. Victims included women, children, and the elderly. Nearly 50 hostages remain in captivity, including the remains of two murdered Americans. Among those taken was Edan Alexander of Tenafly, who was released in May.

“Hamas has now been holding innocent civilians hostage for nearly two years,” said commission co-chair Karin Elkis. “We insist that every single captive must come home, if we are to realize an end to the suffering endured by Israeli and American families and communities affected by October 7th. Bring them home now.”

Co-chair Mark Levenson echoed the urgency to bring them home, saying the continued captivity “emboldens terrorists and puts innocent lives at risk.”

Released hostages and medical reports from recovered remains describe conditions of captivity that include physical abuse, psychological torture, malnutrition, isolation, and sexual assault. Families have been denied any form of communication with their loved ones.

The New Jersey-Israel Commission, established in 1989 under the Department of State, fosters trade, cultural, and educational ties. New Jersey-Israel trade accounts for an estimated $1.7 billion annually, supporting thousands of jobs in the state.

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