Florida political leaders reflect 1 year after Oct. 7 attack on Israel

Image via AP.

Monday marks one year since the deadly Oct. 7 attack on civilian neighborhoods in Israel, where Hamas terrorists murdered some 1,200 people and took hostage 254 others, of whom more than 100 remain in captivity.

As the Israel-Hamas war rages on, surrounding hostile forces including Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Iranian regime fire rockets and missiles at the lone Jewish-majority nation at a seemingly incessant rate.

Meanwhile, the death toll in Gaza has exceeded 41,000 people, according to the Hamas-run Palestinian Health Ministry, which does not differentiate between militants and civilians. And across the globe, antisemitic incidents — already at a record high before the attack — skyrocketed in its aftermath, according to the Anti-Defamation League.

The Sunshine State is home to America’s third-largest population of Jewish people, an estimated 672,435 as of last year, representing 3% of the population. Most reside in South Florida.

Florida Politics reached out to many of the state’s politicians about how they feel on this infamous date and how they intend to observe it.

Gov. Ron DeSantis, a Republican, posted: “One year ago, Iran-backed Hamas terrorists committed the deadliest attack on Jews since the Holocaust. Terrorists tortured, raped, and massacred more than 1200 civilians, including 39 Americans. Hamas kidnapped over 250 men, women, children, and babies — and they are still holding more than 100 Israeli and American hostages. While we remember the horrors of Oct. 7, we also recognize the courage of those who rushed toward danger to help save innocent lives from the terror attacks. Under my leadership, Florida mobilized passenger planes to help hundreds of Americans who were stranded in Israel return home safely. In the year since the Oct. 7 terror attacks, we have taken action to ensure the safety of Florida’s Jewish communities and institutions. We have shown zero tolerance for pro-Hamas radicals’ attempts to intimidate Jewish students on our college campuses. There is no place for antisemitism in Florida. On this solemn day, (First Lady Casey DeSantis) and I send our deepest condolences to the families of all the victims of terrorism. We pray for the hostages and their loved ones. And we stand with Israel and the Jewish people.”

Attorney General Ashley Moody, a Tampa Republican, posted: “One year ago, Hamas terrorists murdered, raped and took hostage innocent civilians in Israel. Every day we should remember that these terrorists are still holding hostages. Praying today for their safe return and the citizens of Israel, Florida stands with you.”

Chief Financial Officer and Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis, a Panama City Republican, posted: Today marks one year since the heinous terrorist attacks on Israel by Iran-backed Hamas. We remember the lives lost and pray for the communities impacted by ongoing violence. Florida will always #StandWithIsrael.”

Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson, a Trilby Republican, posted a short message about Hamas and other terrorists attacking Israel in the region: “They filmed their crimes and celebrated the terror. There aren’t enough weapons on this planet to give these terrorists what they deserve.”

U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio, a Miami Republican, posted: “Oct. 7 was the darkest day for Jews since the Holocaust. Iran and Iran-backed terrorist groups are still trying to wipe out the Jewish state of Israel. America remembers the lives lost one year ago and continues to stand with its ally.”

The re-election campaign of U.S. Sen. Rick Scott, a Naples Republican, said he will hold a “Floridians Against Antisemitism” roundtable with Jewish leaders at Florida Atlantic University. He wrote on X, One year ago, the world watched in horror as Iran-backed Hamas terrorists attacked our great ally Israel. Today, there are still Americans and Israelis who were viciously beaten and dragged into captivity by these murderous thugs being held hostage in Gaza. Florida proudly stands with Israel and the Jewish Community. Bring them all home!”

U.S. Rep. Aaron Bean, a Fernandina Beach Republican, posted: As we welcome #RoshHashanah 5785, I join my Jewish friends in reflecting on a year marked by tragedy while honoring the resilience & courageous spirit of the Israeli people. I pray for a New Year filled with joy, strength, & victory. To all who celebrate in (Florida’s 4th Congressional District), Shana Tova!”

U.S. Rep. Kat Cammack, a Gainesville Republican, posted: On Oct 7, 2023, over 1,200 people were murdered and 251 people were brutally kidnapped. There are still 101 people in Hamas captivity, including 4 Americans. We remember this horrific day 365 days later. We stand with Israel.”

U.S. Rep. Mario Díaz-Balart, a Miami Republican, wrote in an X post: “As we mark the one-year anniversary since Hamas’ brutal, unprovoked terrorist attack on Israel, which resulted in the massacre of more than 1,200 innocent civilians, including 46 Americans, I stand unequivocally with Israel to do whatever it needs to do to defeat Iran’s evil network of proxy terrorist groups which pose grave national security risks to America, Israel, and our allies.”

U.S. Rep. Lois Frankel, a Delray Beach Democrat, announced that she is introducing a bipartisan measure to condemn the attack. She also posted: “Today marks one year since Hamas unleashed the deadliest attack on the Jewish people since the Holocaust. On Oct. 7, Hamas terrorists brutally murdered, raped, and maimed thousands of civilians, taking 240 hostages, many of whom remain captive, enduring horrific suffering.”

U.S. Rep. Carlos Giménez, a Miami Republican, released a statement by email just after 5:15 p.m. Monday: “Today marks the one-year anniversary of the unprovoked terrorist attacks against our dear friend and ally Israel. I continue to stand with Jewish State of Israel and its right to defend itself from Hamas’ violent and terrorist invasion. Am Yisrael Chai. The growing situation in Israel is worrying. The regime in Iran launched the largest missile attack in history against our allies, (and as) Iran and Hamas continue to grow their dominance in the Middle East, they have unleashed mass chaos which has resulted in thousands of innocent lives being lost, including Americans. Iran has people on their hit list, there are current credible assassination threats towards American officials, like President Donald Trump. The murderous regime must face real consequences for their heinous and pathetic attack targeting innocent civilians in Israel and their murderous threats against American citizens. The Biden-Harris Administration continues to be weak, and as a result has emboldened foreign adversaries to attack freedom-loving citizens and threaten with death our leaders and allies. The U.S. must stand up against terrorist organizations and murderous regimes. As our closest ally, Israel has the unequivocal right as a democratic state to defend itself from murderous terrorists and dictatorial regimes that seek nothing but death. As the Jewish people celebrate Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish new year, I continue to pray and fight for our ally Israel as they continue to be attacked by terrorist groups and dictatorial states. I wish the entire Jewish community a peaceful and prosperous new year.”

U.S. Rep. Laurel Lee, a Tampa Republican, posted: “It has been one year since the Oct. 7 terrorist attack orchestrated by Hamas on Israel. Today, we remember the 1,200+ innocent lives that were lost and pray those who are still being held hostage return home safely. The United States stands strong with Israel, our greatest ally in the Middle East, as they defend their existence.”

U.S. Rep. Brian Mast, a Palm City Republican, noted that Americans remain in Hamas captivity, saying, “As we speak about Oct. 7, I reflect on (it) in this way: It was an invasion, yes, but it was far more than that. It was an attack, yes, but it was far more than an attack. It was murder, yes, but it was far more than just murder. It was torture, but it was far more than torture. The Oct. 7 events were by every definition a genocide. For my part, I will always recognize who the enemy is. I will make sure that our yes is yes, and our no is no as the United States of America, that we do stand together and we do work together and that we will eliminate the enemy together. It’s important for all of us to remember that as a message as well, that even though we go through these dark times, it’s going through that fight that ultimately makes us the strongest that we’ve ever been.”

U.S. Rep. Jared Moskowitz, a Parkland Democrat, posted: “One year ago, the world was horrified by Hamas’s brutal attack on Israel, the deadliest single day for Jews since the Holocaust. My heart is with those grieving the loss of their loved ones and those still being held hostage. We must do everything possible to bring them home.”

U.S. Rep. María Elvira Salazar, a Miami Republican, posted: “One year ago on Oct. 7, an unfathomable terrorist attack cast unspeakable darkness over Israel. We must remember the many victims of this tragedy. In light of continued attack, Israel’s strength is unyielding. Today & always, we remember & stand firmly with Israel. #NeverForget.“

U.S. Rep. Michael Waltz, a St. Johns County Republican, posted a lengthy statement to X. In read in part, “Iran is the root of this evil: They fund and arm Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis, and as we saw last week and in April, they are willing to attack Israel themselves. As long as Iran continues to funnel money and weapons to these terrorists, they will rebuild, they will attack again, and the threat to Israel and America will NEVER disappear. If we want to be serious about regional stability and our own national security, we MUST return to President Trump’s policy of maximum pressure on Iran to cripple their war machine. At home, we’ve seen a shocking rise in anti-Semitism since the attacks. Masked mobs chanting genocidal slogans have continuously targeted Jewish communities and places of worship, seeking to make Jewish people fear for their lives. We must continue to stand against this rising tide of anti-Semitism and ensure that those fueling it are held accountable. I stand firmly with Israel as they fight to bring the hostages home and defend their homeland. We will never forget the innocent lives taken, and we must confront the evil behind these attacks. “

U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, a Weston Democrat, posted: “A year ago, the world awoke to the threat Israel faces every day. As we fight to rescue the hostages, protect civilians, stabilize the region, and reverse surging antisemitism worldwide, we must take action to counter Iran’s sponsorship of terrorism, which endangers us all.”

U.S. Rep. Daniel Webster, a Leesburg Republican, posted: “One year ago, Israel was brutally attacked by Iranian-backed Hamas terrorists. Today, we remember the over 1,200 lives lost, call for the release of every hostage, and reaffirm our support for our ally Israel as they defend themselves against those who threaten their existence.”

U.S. Rep. Frederica Wilson, a Liberty City Democrat, posted: “One year ago, Hamas terrorists killed over 1,200 Israelis and took hostage over 250 people. Today, over 50 hostages still remain in captivity by Hamas, including 4 Americans. The pain of not knowing and not seeing your loved ones is indescribable. We must #BringBackTheHostages. I’ve met with hostage families, worn blue every Wednesday in solidarity of the hostages, and remain committed to bringing them home. Enough is enough. Today, we mourn those we’ve lost and redouble our efforts to free ALL the hostages.”

The bipartisan Florida Legislative Jewish Caucus, chaired by Davie Democratic Rep. Mike Gottlieb, released a statement Monday afternoon reaffirming its solidary with Israel. “Today we honor the innocent souls lost in the planned slaughter and massacre on Oct. 7, may their memories be a blessing. We will continue to lead the nation as a beacon of hope for all Jews worldwide. As we mourn and reflect on the last year, we are saddened by the growth in antisemitism in our country; however, it serves to strengthen our resolve. As a caucus we intend to remain as one, strongly united with our fellow legislators, committed to defeating those who seek our demise, committed to ridding the world of terrorists, and committed to supporting democracy in Florida and in Israel. #AmYisraelChai.”

State Sen. Shevrin Jones of Miami Gardens, Chair of the Miami-Dade County Democratic Party: “We plan on releasing a public statement as well as attending local commemoration and memorial events in-district to mark one year since Hamas’ deadly attack on Israel. It is my honor to serve an incredibly diverse district in the State Senate and will always stand with the Jewish community.”

State Sen. Lori Berman, a Boynton Beach Democrat and Legislative Jewish Caucus member: “One year ago today, the people of Israel experienced an unspeakable act of violence that forever altered countless lives. On Oct. 7, we witnessed a brutal terrorist attack that took the lives of innocent civilians, shattered families, and left a lasting scar on the nation of Israel and the Jewish community around the world. As we reflect on this tragic anniversary, we honor the memory of those who were lost and extend our deepest sympathies to their families. “The resilience of the Israeli people and the unwavering bond between the United States and Israel remain strong. Florida has always stood firmly alongside Israel, and I, as a proud Jewish  Senator, remain committed to ensuring that this relationship endures. Let this day remind us of the importance of fighting against hate, terrorism, and anti-Semitism wherever they arise. We must continue to work toward peace and security for Israel, a future where such senseless acts of violence have no place in our world, and above all else ensure the hostages are freed.”

State Sen. Tina Polsky, a Boca Raton Democrat and Legislative Jewish Caucus Member, said she plans to attend an event Monday at Temple Beth El in Boca Raton.

“In the past year, Jews around the world have faced a tidal wave of threats and antisemitism directly tied to the Israel-Hamas war. On campuses across North America, Jewish students are harassed and attacked for their identities, while Jewish institutions and communities are being targeted at unprecedented rates,” Polsky said.

“We mourn the loss of those taken from us on Oct. 7 and in the war since, and we stand in solidarity with those who lost loved ones due to the Hamas terrorist attack. It is critical that we forcefully condemn terrorism and the horrific, gruesome, attacks (and) we stand in solidarity with our ally, Israel, and reaffirm our commitment to its sovereignty and security. … Lastly, we call on Hamas to immediately surrender and release the hostages, so that this war and suffering can end for both Israelis and Palestinians alike.”

State Rep. Alex Rizo of Hialeah said he and other members of the Republican Party of Miami-Dade County, which he chairs, are writing a statement of solidarity prayer and remembrance. “Of course, there’s some optimism in there that those who are still held by Hamas will come home safely to their families, including Americans,” he said, adding that there may also be political statement later “about how upsetting it is that the Biden-Harris administration has continued to allow this to go on, and we see further escalation with no resolution in sight.”

State Rep. Alex Andrade, a Pensacola Republican: “I’ll be reaching out to my Jewish friends especially, and thinking about the families who were devastated by Hamas’ brutality. I’ll be praying and thinking about what we witnessed last year, and do my part to ensure we never forget.”

State Rep. Carolina Amesty, a Windermere Republican, said she remains steadfast in her commitment to supporting Israel and standing with its people.

“For me, this day represents both remembrance and action. It is not about honoring those we lost but also about reaffirming our unwavering support for Israel and its right to defend itself,” she said.

“It is a powerful reminder of the resilience of Israel in the face of terror and a call for us to continue advocating for its security and future. I will be joining my community in prayer for the victims and their families, and I will be delivering a public message to ensure we never forget the events of that tragic day. It is my hope that by bringing attention to the ongoing threats Israel faces, we can strengthen our resolve to stand against terrorism.”

State Rep. Fabián Basabe, a Miami Beach Republican, said he will spend the day visiting at Chabads and temples with his district’s Jewish community, finishing at a presentation at a shul in Bal Harbor.

“It is important for me that my constituents know their Representative is supportive and accessible at all times, and that I will continue to do everything in my power to make them feel safe and protected in our home,” he said. “Also, in the Jewish calendar, each ninth day of month is an important time of reflection. I will spend this day meeting with dignitaries and elected officials, prior to presenting our Holocaust Memorial with a check on behalf of the State of Florida as I believe expanding its educational impact is instrumental to the Never Again sentiment.”

State Rep. Mike Caruso, a West Palm Beach Republican and Legislative Jewish Caucus member, posted: “Today marks one year since the Oct. 7 attack on Israel — a day of immense loss and resilience. … We unite in remembrance of those who were lost and those still held hostage. It’s time to bring them home. We stand with Israel, now and always.”

State Rep. Dan Daley, a Coral Springs Democrat, said his team will attend a remembrance at the Jewish Federation of Greater Miami.

“This marks the one-year anniversary of the most vicious, terrifying and murderous day for the Jewish people since the Holocaust. As we reflect on the tragedies we must stand resolute in urging the return of the hostages still held — some of whom are American citizens, and safety and security for all in the region,” he said. “Members of our Jewish community are marking their most holy of days and the start of the new year. May it be one filled with peace and healing.”

State Rep. Alina García, a Miami Republican who is running for Miami-Dade Supervisor of Elections, said she will pray the rosary, attend mass and go to as many Oct. 7-related events as possible.

“I will also use social media to remind people of the Oct. 7 barbaric attack on innocent lives,” she said. “Oct. 7 is a day of pain and suffering for all humanity. My heart goes out to all the victims and families of the hostages, murdered, tortured, raped. How can there be such brutality in the 21st Century? Oct. 7 is a reminder that we must be vigilant. Unfortunately, evil exists in the world. I stand with Israel. My prayers are with the men and women fighting for Israel, with the victims and their families. We can never forget, never again. I stand with Israel.”

State Rep. Randy Fine, a Palm Bay Republican and member of the Legislative Jewish Caucus, wrote a series of posts on X about the anniversary. “I am not the same person today that I was a year ago. I have never been prouder to be Jewish nor angrier about the way we are allowed to be treated in America and around the world. Today, I mourn those innocents who were killed by Muslim terrorists and my heart is with the hostages being held by these Islamic animals and the families that miss them so badly. I pray for the safety of those on the front lines against the evil in Gaza, and Lebanon, and Iran, and for the enemy on the other side to suffer. May G-d protect the light and rain hellfire and damnation down on the darkness. Today, more than ever, #BombsAway.”

State Rep. Christine Hunschofsky, a Parkland Democrat, said she will attend a remembrance event at a local temple.

“This day will forever stand as one of the saddest and most disturbing days in world history,” she said. “No matter who you are, what you believe, or where you stand, we must always speak with one voice on this issue and stand against unprovoked and extreme violence against innocent civilians, as we continue to advocate for the release of the hostages. We must also always stand in support of our allies, like Israel, in their need to defend themselves even as we push for peace and a resolution to these kinds of conflicts.”

State Rep. Dotie Joseph, a North Miami Democrat: “What has been going on before, during and after Oct. 7 breaks my heart. I pray for lasting peace and no more lives lost not only in Israel, but also in Palestine, Haiti, the Congo, Sudan, Tigre, New Caledonia, and all the places experiencing immense pain that many of us will never know and cannot even fathom. May there be peace. Shalom. Salam. Lapè. Amani. Paz. La paix. Selami. Hépíng. Spokiy. Mir. Alafia. Udo. Heiwa. Shaanti.”

State Rep. Traci Koster, a Tampa Republican: “Every corner of America watched in shock and horror at the depravity and terror inflicted on innocent civilians a year ago. Since then, Israel has shown the world its resolve and unwavering commitment to rescuing every hostage and protecting their fundamental right to exist in peace and security. I join with so many of my colleagues in prayer that every hostage is returned and that Israelis are able to live in peace for generations to come.”

State Rep. Chip LaMarka, a Lighthouse Point Republican: “I plan to attend the Jewish Federation of Broward County on Sunday afternoon to observe and commemorate the one-year anniversary of the horrific attacks on our Jewish friends and family on Oct. 7.”

State Rep. Michelle Salzman, a Pensacola Republican and Legislative Jewish Caucus member, wrote a lengthy post on X that in part read: “Today marks one year since the devastating terrorist attack on Israel. We pause to honor the 1,200+ lives lost and remember the 240+ individuals taken hostage. On that fateful morning, Hamas launched a surprise assault from Gaza, overwhelming southern Israeli communities, including several kibbutzim known for their peaceful, agricultural lifestyles. These quiet, close-knit communities, such as Kibbutz Be’eri and Kibbutz Kfar Aza, were among the hardest hit, with residents enduring unimaginable terror as militants stormed their homes, raped the women, tortured the elderly, massacred families, and took hostages. One of the most tragic and harrowing moments occurred at the Nova Music Festival, where thousands of young people gathered for what was meant to be a celebration of music and life. The festival, held near Re’im in southern Israel, turned into a nightmare when Hamas militants launched a brutal attack on the attendees. Over 260 festival-goers were killed in the assault, many of them while trying to flee for their lives. The festival grounds became one of the most chilling symbols of the atrocity, as videos and stories emerged of innocent people being hunted down and taken hostage. The world watched in horror as these events unfolded, revealing the largest loss of Jewish lives since the Holocaust. The impact continues to be felt globally, affecting families from various nationalities and backgrounds. As we reflect on this tragedy, we reaffirm our commitment to peace and stand in solidarity with the victims, their families, and those still in captivity. May their memory be a catalyst for positive change and a more harmonious future. Tragically, over 100 hostages from Israel, the United States, Thailand, and across the globe still remain in captivity with Hamas, their fate unknown.”

State Rep. Allison Tant, a Tallahassee Republican and Legislative Jewish Caucus member: “I will be in temple to mark this solemn day, and putting out a public statement in support of Israel.”

State Rep. Katherine Waldron, a Wellington Democrat: “As I did after the attacks of Oct. 7 by Hamas, I continue to stand with Israel, and it’s right to defend itself from terrorist groups such as Hamas, Hezbollah, and Houthis. It is unfortunate that women, children, and other non-combatants are put in harms way due to these terrorist’s organizations embedding themselves amongst the population, including under or within neigborhoods, hospitals, and schools. I can only pray for peace and that someday the people of the Middle East can live together as brothers and sisters.”

State Rep. Patricia Williams, a Pompano Beach Democrat: “I will be praying for shared space for healing, reflection, and resilience, encouraging participants to come together in solidarity and support for ALL affected families and communities. We are more alike than we are different. This day could be a powerful reminder of the importance of communities, healing, and support. Coming together in solidarity not only honors those affected but also fosters a deeper understanding and connection along us ALL. Encouraging reflection and resilience can inspire hope and collective strength.”

Miami-Dade Commission Chair Oliver Gilbert did not respond to a request for comment. At the County Commission’s Oct. 1 meeting, he sponsored a resolution reaffirming the county’s support of the people of Israel “after the unprovoked and unjustified attack on Oct. 7, 2023.” Commissioners René García and Micky Steinberg co-sponsored the measure, which passed unanimously.

Miami-Dade Commission Vice Chair Anthony Rodriguez said that in support of Israel, he will attend several events hosted in Miami-Dade on Monday.

“This day marks a somber reminder of the fragile state of peace and the need for solidarity against acts of terror,” he said. “It’s important to remember the lives lost and that we stand together, offering support to those affected by the attack. It is important to reaffirm our support to the people of Israel one year after the unprovoked and unjustified attacks on Oct. 7.”

Miami-Dade Commissioner Raquel Regalado did not respond to a request for comment. However, she also sponsored a resolution last week — co-sponsored by García and Steinberg — reaffirming Miami-Dade’s ongoing condemnation and denunciation of hateful speech and bias-motivated violence against Jewish people, and to establish as county law that antisemitism is a form of racial prejudice, to conform with state law.

Pembroke Pines Mayor Angelo Castillo: “I will be doing three things. At the City Commission meeting of Oct. 8, I will make a statement and call for a moment of silence. This Sunday, I am attending the Jewish Federation of Broward County’s “Marking One Year” event to represent my city. I will also be making a public service statement through city social media and my own.”

North Miami Mayor Alix Desulme: “As the City of North Miami, we will observe a solemn moment of silence to honor the victims of the tragic attacks of Oct. 7. We stand with those who lost their lives or were taken hostage by Hamas, and we extend our deepest condolences to the families affected. For us, this day serves as a painful reminder of the importance of peace and the resilience of those who continue to suffer in the aftermath of such violence. May the memory of all those who lost their lives forever be a blessing.”

Doral Mayor Christi Fraga: “One year since the Oct. 7, 2023, terrorist attack against Israel, I want to express my heartfelt solidarity with our community and those affected by this tragedy. In my capacity as the Mayor of Doral, I will join the Consul General of Israel and attend their official solemn ceremony. Also, during our Doral City Council meeting on Oct. 9, I will hold a moment of silence and remembrance to honor both the hostages and lives lost as a result of the attack.”

North Bay Village Mayor Brent Latham said he’ll be attending events organized by the Israel Consul in Miami, including a large evening gathering on Miami Beach. North Bay Village will also light the 79th Street Causeway blue and white in solidarity with the victims of Oct. 7. “Oct. 7 will be commemorated in North Bay Village and across Miami-Dade as a gesture of solidarity for the victims and those still held hostage. We must remember and recognize both the victims and the root causes of the ongoing conflict, in order to advocate for peaceful solutions.”

Miami Beach Mayor Steven Meiner said he and members of the City Commission will reassert their support for Israel at a 9:30 a.m. ceremony Monday outside Miami Beach Fire Station No. 2 at 2300 Pine Tree Dr. The eight Miami Bach firefighters who volunteered to travel to Israel and fill in for some of the country’s first responders who were called to military service shortly after the Oct. 7 massacre plan to attend. “We stand with Israel now and forever. In this moment of profound pain, we reaffirm our steadfast and unshakable support for freedom, democracy and the core values that bind us. The Oct. 7 attack is Israel’s 9/11 — an unimaginable tragedy that will never be forgotten — and only strengthens our resolve to stand united with Israel in the face of evil.”

Sunny Isles Beach Mayor Larisa Svechin said that she visited Israel with the Combat Antisemitism movement and went to the Nova music festival site. She said Sunny Isles Beach has prohibited relationships with any cities that support terrorism or legitimize terrorist states and territories controlled by terrorist organizations. She added that the city has also partnered with Miami-based artist Luli Sulichin to host an immersive installment Oct. 7-23 called Caged Pacifiers, which emphasizes the consequences of antisemitism, hate and violence on children. “The world witnessed the horrors of Oct. 7, 2023 — in real time, as the despicable animals of Hamas, shared their crimes all over social media. The memories of that day are forever seared in our minds. Given our large Jewish and Israeli population, it has been my mission to honor the victims, the hostages, the brave soldiers, and to continue to stand with Israel forever. We continue to mourn and weep for the innocent lives that were so brutally taken and pray for the return of the hostages. As a community, we support each other in times of need. This has been a difficult year for Jewish people, the agony is ever present, knowing that there are still hostages in captivity. This ongoing suffering is a reminder of the enduring threats faced by Israel, the Jewish people, western values, and democracy.”

Aventura Mayor Howard Weinberg: “At the Oct. 1 City of Aventura Commission meeting, I requested (and the Commission unanimously agreed) to fly the Israeli flag next to the American flag at Aventura Government Center on Oct. 7. Also on Oct. 7, myself and members of our Commission will be releasing a video produced in collaboration with Israeli Consul General Maor Elbaz-Starinsky. Aventura officials will be a presence at numerous events throughout South Florida as we commemorate a dark day and continue our call to bring home each of the 101 hostages remaining in Gaza. Aventura will continue to have moral clarity as we stand firmly with Israel.”

Florida Democratic Party Chair Nikki Fried, the immediate past Secretary of Agriculture and Consumer Services: On the first anniversary of Hamas’ brutal October 7th attacks on Israel, killing over 1,200 Israeli civilians and taking 251 hostage, the Florida Democratic Party grieves the lives lost on one of the darkest days in our history. Israel has a right to defend itself today, just as did one year ago in response to the senseless massacre unleashed by Hamas terrorists. For a year, this war has caused unspeakable pain and suffering on both sides of the conflict. Today, there are hostages still in Gaza. There are still families waiting for them to come home and innocent civilians continue to be caught in the crossfires of this war. One year since the attacks of Oct. 7, Israel faces increasing aggression and the risk of a broader regional war in the Middle East. Today, Florida Democrats call for continued U.S. support for Israel to defend itself against adversaries including Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran — who represent a clear and present threat to Israel. As we pause in remembrance today, we renew our calls for the release of the remaining hostages and pray for peace and security to return to the region.”

Former U.S. Rep. Francis Rooney, a Naples Republican and a past U.S. Ambassador to the Holy See, posted: “One year ago Hamas executed a suprise attack on Israel, killing 1,200 and taking 251 hostage. Israel rightly went to war with Hamas. Now, perversely, Israel is also having to fight Hezbollah, the Houthis and Iranian surrogates, while the U.S. liberal media and higher ed blame Israel. Lunacy.”

Former state Sen. Annette Taddeo, a Miami Democrat now running for Miami-Dade Clerk and Comptroller: “Today my heart is with the families forever changed by the devastating loss of loved ones in Hamas’ brutal and barbaric attacks against the Israeli people on Oct. 7 of last year. As a person of Jewish faith, the pain of that day still echoes, and I stand in solidarity with those who continue to mourn, remember, and rebuild. As we honor the memory of the lives tragically taken, I continue to pray for peace and a world where all people are free from hate, fear, and violence. We must remain united in calling for the safe return of all hostages still held by Hamas and affirm our unwavering support for the people of Israel to live in peace and security.”

Former state Rep. J.C. Planas, a Miami Democrat now running for Miami-Dade Supervisor of Election, said he will attend multiple events Monday.

“One year ago today, the world witnessed unimaginable horror as Hamas unleashed a wave of terror on Israel, resulting in the tragic loss of over a thousand men, women, and children. The anguish of that day still weighs heavily, and we continue to proclaim our commitment to justice for the victims as we demand the safe return of all hostages NOW,” he said. “My thoughts are with the grieving families, and my prayers are with those affected by this devastating ongoing conflict. We stand with Israel in pursuit of safety and freedom from violence, and we will not rest until every hostage is returned home.”

Former Pinecrest Mayor and Democratic state Rep. Cindy Lerner, who is running for the Miami-Dade Commission: “As a Jew, I was raised — as I raised my own children — to ‘never forget.’ My husband’s parents were Holocaust survivors, so for our family, that mantra was not an abstraction. The horror and tragedy of Oct. 7, 2023, is this generation’s reminder that antisemitism remains a threat across the globe. I will be praying for all those who lost loved ones on that tragic day and for the quick, safe return of the hostages still remaining in Gaza.”

Former Coral Gables Commissioner Jorge Fors said he isn’t planning anything public. “Although my wife and I have planned to talk to our girls about it that day and teach them about what happened and the realities that led to it,” he said. “They are young, but there are still takeaways.”