WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) released the following statement to honor the October 7 victims and reaffirm the United States' support for Israel:

"On this first anniversary of Hamas' terrorist attack against Israel, we remember the 1,200 innocent lives murdered, including 40 Americans. This unprovoked assault had no justification, and we support Israel in its ongoing efforts to prevent this from happening again. We also remember the fellow citizens who are held hostage by Hamas alongside nearly 100 others awaiting their freedom. All efforts must be made to bring them home alive.

"This past year has also resulted in enormous suffering among innocent Palestinians and Lebanese as terrorists who control Gaza and Lebanon are allowing mass civilian casualties as Hamas and Hezbollah use schools, hospitals and apartment buildings for protection. I am deeply concerned about the humanitarian situation in Gaza and implore the timely passage of food and medicine into the territory.

"As Israel continues to defend itself against terrorists including Hamas, Hezbollah and Houthis - all backed by Iran, which has also attacked Israel twice in the last year - this day is a reminder that these enemies of Israel also pose direct threats to Americans in the Middle East and around the world. Shortly after the attack, I traveled to Israel and met with Prime Minister Netanyahu and other Israeli leaders to show the United States' support of our ally. The United States must be consistent in its support for Israel and work to achieve an enduring peace which safeguards the Jewish state's security and lasting existence and brings long-term peace in the Middle East."