West Yorkshire communities reflect one-year on from October 7 attacks in Israel
Today marks a year since the October 7th kidnapping - it was part of a Hamas-led attack on Israel
Today marks a year since the Jewish community went it to mourning in West Yorkshire, following the October 7 Kidnapping, a Hamas-led attack on Israel.
It was the start of a devastating year-long war that has killed thousands, and plunged many into suffering.
After the attacks, vigils were held across West Yorkshire, with buildings lighting up blue. This includes in Leeds at the Civic Hall, on 11 October 2023.
Recently, things have been escalating in the Middle East too.
Dr Becky Alexis-Martin, a Bradford University lecturer in Peace Studies, and said: "As we reflect on the year since this event, it's really difficult to achieve lasting peace I think. One of the reasons why the issue has gone on for so long, is because of this history of instability, and it hasn't been reconciled and it hasn't been tackled."
A rally took place in Leeds City Centre yesterday, as a 'commemoration one year on'. It was organised by Leeds Leads Against Antisemitism.