One Year After Hamas’s October 7 Attack on Israel: What’s Next?

October 7, 2024 marks the somber one-year anniversary of Hamas's devastating attack on Israel that ignited the ongoing war in Gaza and conflicts with Hezbollah and Iran. The assault, which killed around 1,200 Israelis and resulted in over 250 hostages taken, shattered Israel's sense of security and eroded public trust in the government's ability to protect its citizens.

In the year since, Israel has responded with a severe military campaign in Gaza. Hostilities have also spread to Lebanon, with Hezbollah launching rockets into northern Israel and the IDF conducting airstrikes on targets in Beirut and southern Lebanon. Tensions with Iran have escalated as well.

As Israel continues to grapple with the aftermath and trauma of the October 7 attack, what lies ahead? Israel is bracing for a future of prolonged conflict, taking the battle to its enemies in Gaza, Lebanon and potentially Iran. Key issues and developments to watch include:

- Ongoing military operations in Gaza to eliminate remaining Hamas fighters and infrastructure
- Efforts to secure the release of the approximately 100 hostages still held by Hamas
- Heightened tensions and potential for direct conflict with Iran
- Political fallout for PM Netanyahu over his handling of the war and hostage situation
- Displacement of around 75,000 Israelis from homes near the Lebanese border
- Economic impact of higher defense spending and taxes

The October 7 attack profoundly changed Israel's security calculus. One year later, the path forward remains fraught with challenges as the nation steels itself for an extended period of regional strife.