Gov. Hochul flies to Israel in show of support
Gov. Kathy Hochul and 16 other governors were scheduled to fly to Israel on Tuesday in a bipartisan show of support for the Jewish state. Credit: AP/Hans Pennink
ALBANY — Gov. Kathy Hochul flew to Israel on Tuesday in a show of support for the Jewish state, and in a letter, urged the United States Congress to help pay for added security at synagogues and mosques following the attack on Israel by Hamas on Oct. 7.
“I plan to meet with diplomatic leaders and communities who have been devastated by the horrific Hamas attacks,” Hochul said in a statement Tuesday. “The bonds between America and Israel are unbreakable — now and forever.”
“I recognize we have a unique and solemn responsibility to support Israel during this critical moment,” Hochul said. “I'm proud to stand with my fellow governors to show our support for Israel, and grateful to my colleagues for their bold moral leadership."
Israel-Hamas war
On Oct. 7, 2023, the Hamas militant group launched an attack on Israel, which resulted in thousands of deaths and casualties. In response, Israel declared war and began its own assault on Hamas. Here's the latest on the war:
The latest: Israeli airstrike in central Gaza kills one of Hamas' top militant commanders
On Long Island, the war has prompted both pro-Israel and pro-Palestine rallies, while many have sought to provide aid to Israel, including a Lloyd Harbor teen who started a fundraiser to help families of fallen Israeli cops.
How did we get here? Here are some answers to questions about the Mideast conflict.
Click here for complete coverage of the war.
Hochul was in the White House Tuesday morning meeting with President Biden's chief of staff, Jeff Zients, a Hochul spokesman said. She planned to fly to Israel after that briefing.
After her White House meeting, Hochul said she briefed on President Biden's trip to Israel.
She said she "discussed my shared objectives in visiting, offering support for the Israeli people, bearing witness, and determining what other aid New York can provide."
Before leaving for Israel, Hochul emphasized that her "solidarity" trip is aimed at providing humanitarian aid to Jewish as well as Palestinian residents, while showing a united front against the Hamas terrorist group.
“The loss of life is unforgivable," she said. “Any loss of innocent civilian life is heart-wrenching.”
She also said the state will protect protesters who support Israel as well as supporters of Palestinians in Gaza.
“Israel must defend itself against terrorists, or terrorists will have no boundaries," Hochul said. “We stand united in our condemnation. “
Hochul released a letter from her and 16 other governors, including California Gov. Gavin Newsom, to congressional leaders that commended Biden’s quick order to send military assistance to Israel, a move that has drawn support from congressional members from both parties.
“We urge immediate and continued U.S. aid to Israel in the weeks and months to come,” Hochul said. “We also urge the Senate to swiftly confirm nominees to key diplomatic roles in the region, including ambassador roles in Israel, Egypt, Lebanon, Oman, and Kuwait as well as move forward with consideration of all pending military nominations and promotions to ensure that our most experienced leaders are occupying the most important jobs for our national defense.”
Hochul also said Washington needs to make sure states and local governments are given enough funding “to support activities and programs to ensure resources to safeguard houses of worship and religious-affiliated groups are available to combat antisemitism at home.”
There have been several protests in New York for and against Israel since the attacks.
In New York, which includes the biggest population of Jewish people outside Israel, leaders of both parties are supporting Israel.
“Anyone who’s seen the images of Hamas’ depraved attack on civilians understands the importance of highlighting our support for Israel,” said Will Barclay (R-Pulaski), the Assembly’s minority leader.
Michael Gormley has worked for Newsday since 2013, covering state government, politics and issues. He has covered Albany since 2001.
'A spark for them to escalate the fighting' A standoff between officials has stalled progress, eroded community patience and escalated the price tag for taxpayers. Newsday investigative editor Paul LaRocco and NewsdayTV's Virginia Huie report.
'A spark for them to escalate the fighting' A standoff between officials has stalled progress, eroded community patience and escalated the price tag for taxpayers. Newsday investigative editor Paul LaRocco and NewsdayTV's Virginia Huie report.
