ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10)-- Monday marks one year since Hamas attacked Israel. It is known as the deadliest attack on Jewish people since the Holocaust.
To honor the victims of the Hamas Attack, Governor Hochul has directed flags to be flown at half-staff and state landmarks will be lit yellow in solidarity with Israel.
The governor posted on X saying in part, “On this solemn day, we pray for the release of the hostages and an end to the violence— and recommit ourselves in the fight to stamp out antisemitism.”
On Sunday night, she spoke at the Temple Israel Center in Westchester County, reflecting on her visit to Israel last year.
"Nothing on Earth could justify what I saw and the searing pain that so many people still live with today, one year later. Nothing could justify that ever!"
New York is home to the largest Jewish population outside of Israel.
"I just think that today is not only a day to remember those who we know were killed, but also to remember those who have not been returned dead or alive to their families— and they should," said Senate Minority Leader, Rob Ortt. "There are American citizens in that 101 hostages, there’s not just Israelis. There are American citizens who are apart of that, and the United States should never rest as long as some of our citizens are being held captive anywhere in the world, and certainly not in this case."
A year later, the conflict continues. Last week, state police were directed to strengthen surveillance at synagogues, mosques, and community centers after Iran’s bombardment of Israel.
To help combat hate, the state budget passed this year allocated a total of $35 million dollars to the Securing Communities Against Hate Grant Program to strengthen security at places of worship.
In New York City’s Central Park, a ceremony will be held to remember the victims. Governor Hochul is expected to be in attendance.
