BISMARCK, ND (KXNET) — On this day last year, Hamas terrorists invaded southern Israel, killing about 1,200 people in the October 7th massacre and taking hundreds more hostage. Today, the Jerusalem Post reports that there are still 101 hostages being held in captivity. All 49 Republican senators in Congress today introduced a resolution that supports the forever survival of Israel and calls for the safe release of American hostages. The Senators, including John Hoeven (R-North Dakota), fully condemned the Iran-backed Hamas for its actions. “On the one-year anniversary of the attacks on Israel, we remain committed to standing with Israel in its efforts to fully defeat Hamas and stand up to its terrorist adversaries throughout the region," Hoeven said. "Israel is our strongest partner in the Middle East and this resolution reaffirms our support for this important ally.” Many senators declared their support for Israel as part of the introduction of this resolution. “This time last year, I woke up in the Middle East to the unbearable news that Israel was under attack by Iran-backed terrorists and Americans were being killed and taken hostage,” said Joni Ernst (R-Iowa). “I immediately traveled into Israel to show that our nation’s friendship is unwavering, in good times and bad." "One year since that day, as Israel remains under attack on all fronts, Senate Republicans stand united with our greatest ally in the Middle East,” Ernst continued. Vigils, protests around the world commemorate the anniversary of Hamas attack on Israel The Senate Republican Conference released a statement saying that they stand united in opposing violent antisemitic protests and Iran-backed Hamas’ use of rape as a weapon of war. They also emphasized Israel’s right to defend itself and stressed the importance of denying Hamas the ability to reconstitute in the region to ensure that what happened that day is never repeated. To read the full resolution, click here. North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum also issued a statement today reaffirming North Dakota’s support for Israel. Burgum has directed the State Capitol to be lit in blue and white – the colors of the State of Israel’s official flag – Sunday and Monday night. “North Dakota stands steadfast in our support of Israel and its people as they continue to fight a seven-front war to defend their homeland against brutal attacks by Hamas, Hezbollah and Iran, the world’s leading state sponsor of terrorism,” Burgum said. “As we light the Capitol in blue and white in a show of solidarity with our democratic ally, we pray for the return of Israeli hostages and an end to this war that will allow all Israelis and Palestinians to finally live in peace.” Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Today's Top Stories SIGN UP NOW