Statement by Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide on the second anniversary of the terrorist attack against Israel

Norway has strongly condemned the terrorist attack and acts of violence committed by Hamas. These were grave acts of terrorism involving killings, mutilation, physical, psychological and sexual violence, and hostage-taking, carried out by a terrorist organisation.

It is completely unacceptable to attack civilians in this way and to take hostages. No cause can justify such violence. The tragic events of 7 October left profound scars on Israeli society and affected people around the world. Not least given the history of the Jewish people, it is vital to understand how deeply Hamas' acts of violence have affected Israeli society.

From the outset, Norway has demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, and that the International Committee of the Red Cross be granted the necessary access to them while they remain in captivity. Taking civilians hostage is a grave violation of international law.

The events of 7 October 2023 also marked the beginning of the ensuing devastating warfare in Gaza. Every country has the right to defend itself against terrorism. Equally important, such defence must be conducted in accordance with international law, humanitarian law, and human rights. Norway has been clear that Israel's response to the 7 October attacks has gone far beyond the limits set by these rules. Gaza lies in ruins and the Palestinian population has been subjected to unimaginable suffering. Many of those who have survived will live with physical and psychological trauma for the rest of their lives. Far too many lives have been lost, and this will continue as long as the fighting continues.

An immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and unimpeded and safe access for aid workers and humanitarian aid to the Palestinian population in Gaza are urgently needed to end the suffering. But the absence of war is not the same as lasting peace. Although the current war in Gaza has lasted two years, the underlying conflict is nearly eight decades old.

In the longer term, only a political solution - one that enables the Israeli and Palestinian states to exist side by side within mutually recognised borders - can bring about a more peaceful, stable, and secure future. We hope that President Trump's peace plan will contribute to this, and we stand ready to support efforts where we can.

A terrorist attack like the one we witnessed on 7 October must never happen again. And the nightmare unfolding in Gaza must come to an end. Our solidarity lies with the vast majority of Israelis and Palestinians who want peace. It is essential that the world now helps to build a credible vision of a future without violence - one where both Israelis and Palestinians can live safely with their families, despite the immense trauma they have endured.

In Norway, many have been affected by the violence we witnessed on 7 October and throughout the two years since. I therefore extend a special thought to them today.

Many within Norway's Jewish minority have experienced a rise in antisemitic attitudes and actions over the past two years. We cannot accept that Jews in Norway - or Jews anywhere - are held responsible for the policies of the Israeli government.

We all share a responsibility to stand up against hate speech, whether it manifests as antisemitism, anti-Muslim racism, or in other forms.