The Jewish Congregation and the Israeli Embassy in Stockholm organized a memorial ceremony on Monday for the victims of the terrorist attack in Israel on October 7 last year. Members of the congregation and invited guests initially united in a minute of silence.
Then, Aron Verständig, chairman of the Jewish Central Council, inaugurated the ceremony.
Our promise to all those who were murdered a year ago is that we will never forget you. The memory of you and what happened that Saturday will be part of the Jewish people's collective memory for all eternity, he said.
Kippa with Dala Horse
Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson (The Moderate Party), wearing a kippa with a Dala horse on it, held a speech.
October 7, 2023, is forever etched in our collective memory. It was not just an attack on Israelis, but on the very idea of a safe haven for the world's Jews.
Kristersson emphasized that the government does not accept anti-Semitism and stands behind Sweden's Jews.
Let us leave a dark year behind us tonight. There will be brighter days, but not by themselves, but because we are many who light the light, Kristersson said in conclusion of his speech.
Israel's Ambassador Ziv Nevo Kulman said in his speech that every day since October 7, 2023, has been a repetition of the day of the terrorist attack.
For the relatives of the dead, every day is October 7. But the more threatened and pressured we are, the stronger we become, he said.
During the ceremony, testimonies from the victims were also read out and several musical performances were held.
The S-Leader Also in Attendance
About a dozen politicians were present, in addition to Ulf Kristersson, including the leader of the Social Democrats, Magdalena Andersson.
It's an important day to remember the terrible terrorist attack and honor the memory of those who were killed and, of course, think of those who are still being held hostage, she said to TT after the ceremony.
The memorial ceremony was preceded by a manifestation on Norrmalmstorg in Stockholm, organized by the organization Bring Them Home Now, relatives and friends of those taken hostage by Hamas.
Parts of the audience wore t-shirts with motifs of different people from the hostages. Black for those who were murdered, white for those they hope are still alive.
On October 7, we woke up to a new reality, and we have been stumbling in the dark since then, said a speaker during the manifestation.
