Official statements from the U.S. State Department or Israeli Defense Forces

Over 5000 Attend Columbus Circle Vigil for Hostages Murdered by Hamas

Sep 2, 2024, 12:15 AM

A vigil was held at Columbus Circle in New York City to honor six hostages murdered by Hamas in Gaza. Thousands of people, including members of the Hostage and Missing Families Forum, gathered to mourn the victims and call for the release of remaining hostages. The event featured prayers, chants demanding the immediate release of hostages still held in Gaza, and the reading of the Mourners Kaddish. Similar gatherings took place in other locations, such as Toronto’s Earl Bales Park, where attendees also called for peace and the return of hostages. The Israeli Defense Forces reported that the hostages, including an Israeli-American citizen, were killed shortly before Israeli forces arrived. At least 5000 people attended the New York vigil.