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RSC Members Reflect on the Second Anniversary of October 7th and Call for Immediate Release of Remaining Hostages

October 7, 2025

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Two years ago, the world watched in horror as Israel and the Jewish people were attacked by Hamas terrorists. Over 1,200 innocent lives were lost, and more than 250 hostages were kidnapped. 48 hostages still remain in Hamas captivity. 

Members of the Republican Study Committee (RSC) solemnly marked the second anniversary of the October 7th attack on Israel by Hamas terrorists. The RSC stands firmly with Israel and calls for the immediate release of all the remaining hostages: 

“Two years ago today, Hamas launched a barbaric and unprovoked assault on Israel, slaughtering innocent men, women, and children, then parading their victims' bodies through the streets in celebration. This evil cannot stand, and antisemitism must be outright condemned and confronted. Israel has every right to defend itself, and I'm grateful President Trump has taken decisive action to restore peace, return the hostages, and end Hamas' reign of terror through a ceasefire and peace deal. I remain committed to supporting President Trump’s work to ensure an atrocity like October 7, 2023, never happens again,” said RSC Chairman August Pfluger (TX-11).

“October 7th was a horrific attack by Hamas on Israel and on Western civilization itself. I want the families of the hostages to know that we haven’t stopped fighting to bring their loved ones home. With President Trump’s strong leadership and the support of Republicans in Congress, we can make sure evil never wins. Under Chairman Pfluger, the Republican Study Committee has been a rock-solid voice for Israel, for the Jewish people, and for every innocent person who has suffered because of Hamas. I truly believe America can lead the way toward a ceasefire and lasting peace in the region,” said Rep. Randy Fine (FL-06).

“Two years ago today, Hamas terrorists invaded Israel, changing the world forever. These savage terrorists murdered men, women, and children; violently took more than 250 people hostage, including Americans; and then despicably celebrated the bloodshed and loss of life. October 7th, 2023, marked the largest massacre of Jewish people since the Holocaust. After the Holocaust, the world said, “never again.” Now, America and the world must be committed to the security and sovereignty of Israel and her people so that such a tragedy must truly never happen again. As we mark two years since that fateful day, Hamas still has innocent hostages held captive, and antisemitism is rising in our own country and around the world.  I am honored to serve as the Chairman of the House-Knesset Parliamentary Friendship Group. In this role, I will continue to reiterate that the House of Representatives, both Republicans and Democrats, unequivocally stand with Israel. Additionally, I am committed to ensuring Israel has the resources she needs to defend herself and her people. I am inspired by the resilience of the Israeli people and their hope for a more peaceful future. We must continue to support Israel’s commitment to defeating Hamas and returning each hostage home. The United States will always stand unequivocally with our greatest friend and ally in the Middle East, Israel,” said Rep. David Kustoff (TN-08).