Relatives and backers of Israeli captives, who remain detained in the Gaza Strip since October 7, gathered for a candle-lighting event in Tel Aviv on December 7, 2023. The ceremony featured a 138-branched menorah symbolizing the number of hostages.
As families in Israel observe the start of Hanukkah, the mood is somber due to the lingering impact of Hamas' Oct. 7 attack. The eight-day Festival of Lights began with families of hostages lighting a menorah in Tel Aviv, symbolizing the 138 individuals still held captive. For Abbey Onn and her family, the holiday carries mixed emotions, with some members lost and others in captivity.
In October, Israeli authorities confirmed the deaths of Onn's cousin, 80-year-old Carmela Dan, and Dan's 12-year-old granddaughter, Noya Dan. The attack on Nir Oz, a kibbutz in southern Israel, led to fatalities and disappearances. While some hostages have been released, others remain in captivity, adding to the emotional complexity of the holiday season for affected families.
In the United States, the Israel-Hamas conflict has coincided with a rise in antisemitism, prompting concerns among Jewish Americans about displaying menorahs. Abbey Onn encourages a symbolic display of solidarity, urging Americans to place menorahs in their windows as a gesture of support. She emphasizes the importance of standing together, highlighting the community's historical support for various causes.
Hanukkah, celebrated from Dec. 7-15 this year, holds significance for Jews across religious spectrums, symbolizing dedication and the triumph of light over darkness. The holiday commemorates the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem in the 2nd century BC after its liberation by a small group of Jewish fighters.
At the White House menorah lighting ceremony, Doug Emhoff, Vice President Kamala Harris's husband and the first Jewish spouse of an American president or vice president, acknowledged the challenges faced by American Jews amid rising antisemitism. He expressed hope and resilience, drawing parallels between the story of Hanukkah and the enduring spirit of the Jewish people.
The ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, initiated by Hamas' attack on Oct. 7, has led to a military response from Israel, resulting in civilian casualties and displacements in the densely-populated Gaza Strip. Israel asserts the necessity to neutralize Hamas' military capabilities and remove it from power. The campaign's toll includes over 17,100 deaths in Gaza, with 70% identified as women and children, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. The situation remains a cause for international concern, with efforts focused on finding a resolution to the protracted conflict.
