Written by: Lisa Polson
Today marks exactly one year since the Hamas-led attacks in Israel on October 7, 2023. According to official Israeli figures the unprecedented attack led to the death of 1,205 people, mostly civilians. This number also includes hostages who later died or were killed in captivity in the Gaza Strip. Hamas took 251 hostages back to Gaza, some as corpses. A year later, around 64 are still being held, while 117 have been released, and 70 are confirmed dead.
In the past year, the people of Gaza and surrounding areas have faced a tragic reality: loss of life, destruction of homes and infrastructure, and emotional trauma that has left communities in despair. The violence has not only caused direct damage but has also greatly disrupted the provision of basic resources such as food, water, and medical care.
According to data provided on Sunday by health officials in Hamas-controlled Gaza, more than 41,000 Palestinians, many of them civilians and children, have died in the year-long conflict. The path to a ceasefire remains uncertain, and the expanding war signals more difficult days ahead.
A Prayer for Peace and Restoration
As believers, we are encouraged to pray for peace and restoration in areas affected by conflict. Let us pray for the people of Gaza and Israel—that God’s hand of healing and comfort will surround them in their pain and sorrow. Pray for God’s peace, which surpasses all understanding, to reign over the entire region. Pray for the leaders on both sides, that they may act with wisdom and compassion, and for the people of Gaza, that they may be strengthened and encouraged in these challenging times.
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Date published: 07/10/2024
Feature image: Image for illustrative purposes only. Artwork adapted from www.freepik.com
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