An attack, which took the lives of more than 1,200 Israeli men, women, and children, while another 250 were kidnapped.
"This war is not about a piece of land, but about our right to exist as a nation." With these words, Ambassador Yossi Levi Sfari addressed the attendees during the commemorative ceremony organized by the Embassy of Israel in Bulgaria, in collaboration with the Organization of the Jews in Bulgaria "Shalom," at the Central Sofia Synagogue.
The ceremony marked one year since the unprecedented terrorist attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023, which took the lives of more than 1,200 Israeli men, women, and children, while another 250 were kidnapped.
Ambassador Sfari emphasized the importance of international support for Israel in these difficult times, expressing gratitude to Bulgaria, the Bulgarian people, and government for their support and solidarity.
"Words are powerless in the face of the atrocities of that day. Numbers might provide some clarity, but dry statistics cannot convey the pain of the Israeli people. The nightmare of October 7 has not ended – thousands of Israelis are still recovering from their traumas, while others await their loved ones who have been held hostage by terrorists for a year," added Ambassador Sfari.
In his opening remarks, the chairman of the Organization of the Jews in Bulgaria "Shalom" noted: "Humanity stands at a crossroads - whether to take the easy path of hatred, division, and animosity towards the different, succumbing to manipulation and disinformation, or to take the harder but right path of responsibility for the world we live in, defending freedom and democracy."
In the presence of ministers, members of parliament, representatives of the diplomatic corps, the Jewish community, and other high-ranking officials, the Speaker of the National Assembly of the Republic of Bulgaria, Ms. Raya Nazaryan, delivered a strong message: "Bulgaria expresses solidarity with the people of Israel and categorically condemns the rocket attacks by Iran. Our country supports and will continue to support international efforts to ensure Israel's security and establish a lasting and just peace in the region."
Bulgarian Foreign Minister Mr. Ivan Kondov also called for an end to the violence in the region, expressing support for Israel and joining the call for the release of the hostages, including the two Bulgarians being held captive in Gaza.
