US Justice Department launches 'Joint Task Force October 7'

The US Department of Justice on Monday announced that it is launching "Joint Task Force October 7" (JTF 10-7) in order to "focus on targeting, charging, and securing for prosecution in the United States the direct perpetrators of the October 7 [2023] attack".

The decision by attorney general Pam Bondi appeared to stem from her meeting with former Israeli captives held in Gaza, who were taken during the Hamas-led attacks on southern Israel on 7 October 2023. 

"JTF 10-7 will... assume responsibility for the pending charges against Hamas leadership relating to the October 7 attack and other acts of terrorism, and to bring those criminals to the United States to face justice for their reprehensible role in these atrocities," the statement said.

"JTF 10-7 will investigate acts of terrorism and civil rights violations by individuals and entities providing support and financing to Hamas, related Iran proxies, and their affiliates, as well as acts of antisemitism by these groups."