Lafayette Reporter

Senator John Kennedy of Louisiana issued a statement on the first anniversary of the October 7 massacre carried out by Hamas against Israeli and American civilians. In his remarks, Kennedy highlighted the brutality of the attack, stating, "On October 7, 2023, Hamas showed the world what evil looks like. Americans and decent people around the globe can’t afford to forget that."

Kennedy detailed some of the atrocities committed during the attack: "Hamas terrorists shot babies and cut the heads off innocents, burned people alive, raped women and girls, kidnapped elderly grandparents, and slaughtered hundreds of young people at a music festival. They murdered more than 40 American citizens. They took other Americans hostage."

The senator emphasized that several American citizens remain in captivity: "They’re still holding our fellow citizens captive, including Edan Alexander, Omer Neutra, Sagui Dekel-Chen and Keith Seigel. These victims haven’t seen their families in a year." He criticized certain Washington officials for not doing enough to secure their release.

Kennedy also addressed actions taken by Hamas post-ceasefire: "Let’s not forget that Hamas broke the cease-fire on Oct. 7. Hamas is using civilians as shields. Hamas is hoarding fuel and food at the expense of their fellow Palestinians." He condemned any suggestions that Israel is responsible for suffering in Gaza.

Finally, Kennedy called on President Biden and Vice President Harris to support Israel's efforts against Hamas: "President Biden and Vice President Harris need to demonstrate that America will continue to stand with Israel until Hamas is in ruins and Iran’s genocidal agenda becomes impossible." He concluded by stressing America's role in preventing future attacks similar to those on October 7.