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Manhattan Marks Hamas Attack Anniversary with Divided Protests

10/8/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On October 7, 2025, Manhattan marked the second anniversary of Hamas' attack on Israel with protests by anti-Israel and pro-Israel groups.
Zohran Mamdani faced criticism for his stance against Israel, with antisemitism accusations tied to support for the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement.
Vigils nationwide promoted peace and remembrance. At a Central Park vigil, Rabbi Chaim Steinmetz urged unity.

History

Historical Context

The Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, marked a significant escalation in the long-standing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which dates back to the 1947 UN Partition Plan. This attack, resulting in over 1,195 Israeli deaths, reignited global protests and bolstered the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement, which saw a 30% increase in college student participation in 2023, reflecting ongoing debates about the region's future.

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Story summary

On October 7, 2025, Manhattan marked the second anniversary of Hamas' attack on Israel with protests by anti-Israel and pro-Israel groups.
Zohran Mamdani faced criticism for his stance against Israel, with antisemitism accusations tied to support for the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement.
Vigils nationwide promoted peace and remembrance. At a Central Park vigil, Rabbi Chaim Steinmetz urged unity.

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