Israel marks October 7 with commemorations, moment of silence, and demonstrations

At noon, people across the country will observe a moment of silence  in memory of those killed. Municipalities, businesses, schools and universities including Tel Aviv University, Hebrew University, the Technion and the Weizmann Institute have confirmed they will observe the minute’s silence.

Memorial ceremonies will also be held at Ben Shemen Forest in central Israel, and beside the yellow rubbish container at the Nova site where some of the young people fleeing gunfire hid, with most killed. Bereaved father Yoram Yehudai will lead a ceremony there in memory of his son Ron, who was murdered at the festival.

Protests and demonstrations will take place throughout the afternoon in cities and at junctions including Haifa, Afula, Rosh Pina and Sde Boker. Organised by the October Council – which comprises thousands of bereaved families, and survivors – they are demanding an inquiry into the security, intelligence, and political failures surrounding October 7.

Israelis hold banners reading 'Remember and never forget' as they urge others to observe a moment's silence today (Photo: Getty)AFP via Getty Images

The day's events will culminate at 9.15pm with a national memorial ceremony at Yarkon Park in Tel Aviv, organised by families of October 7 victims.

Former hostage Eli Sharabi – whose British-born wife Lianne Shirabi and the couple’s two teenage daughters, Noiya,16, and Yahel, 13, were murdered – and actress Shani Cohen will host the ceremony, which will feature performances by Shlomo Artzi, Ivri Lider, Miri Mesika and Harel Skaat.

Organisers said the ceremony aims to be a “national, all-Israeli, unifying and hopeful” event.