Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu affirmed on Monday that Hamas will not retain control over the Gaza Strip, delivering his remarks during a state memorial ceremony commemorating the victims of the October 7 attack. Netanyahu emphasized that individuals involved in the assault and the taking of Israeli hostages face imminent consequences. “Anyone who was involved in the attack against us and held our hostages is living on borrowed time,” he stated. “Every day, we settle accounts with these despicable murderers.”

The ceremony brought together government leaders and bereaved families to honor those who lost their lives in the incident. President Isaac Herzog also spoke at the event, underscoring the importance of vigilance amid ongoing security challenges despite political divisions within Israel. Herzog noted that recent years have deepened the nation’s collective resolve, encouraging personal connection with the victims’ lives. “Over the past three years, Michal [his wife] and I have tried, every single day, to listen, to learn, to honor, and to remember all your loved ones—to read about them, to learn the paths of their lives, to hear about their successes, their joys and their dreams, and to come to know the full and varied lives they left behind,” he said.

The solemn occasion served both as a tribute to those who perished and a reaffirmation of Israel’s determination to confront threats posed by Hamas following the unprecedented attack in early October. Officials reiterated their commitment to national security and to preventing further violence emanating from Gaza.