Hochul directs flags to half-staff in remembrance of lives lost in terrorist attacks against Israel

Gov. Kathy Hochul on Tuesday announced that flags on State buildings will be flown at half-staff indefinitely starting on Wednesday in remembrance of the lives lost as a result of the recent terrorist attacks against the State of Israel.

“New York stands in solidarity with Israel and the Jewish community,” Gov. Hochul said. “I am proud to serve as Governor of the State that is home to the largest Jewish population outside of Israel, and I am committed to doing everything in my power to make sure that this community is supported and protected today and every day.” 

In the wake of last week’s terrorist attacks in Israel, Hochul directed the New York State Police to increase patrols and outreach, and reiterated calls for social media companies to strengthen platform moderation in order to prevent the proliferation of hateful content. 

On Saturday, Hochul also directed New York State landmarks to be illuminated blue and white in solidarity with the State of Israel. 

The governor has also spoken with a broad range of Jewish community leaders and elected officials to offer support during this critical time, and is working with the US Department of State to ensure New Yorkers currently traveling in Israel can return home safely. 

“As New Yorkers grieve loved ones impacted by the abhorrent Hamas terror attacks, it’s critical we provide the security necessary for Jewish communities here in New York,” Hochul said. “Immediately following the Hamas attacks, I deployed the New York State Police to increase security measures to protect synagogues, yeshivas, cultural centers and other at-risk sites. 

“Now, it’s time for social media companies to do the same: monitor the speech on your platform and crack down on incitements to violence – before it’s too late,” she added. 

New Yorkers who see suspicious activity should report it immediately through the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services’ “Safeguard New York” website here. People can also call 1-866-SAFENYS (1-866-723-3697) to submit a tip or report it here. 

Anyone who has received bias-motivated threats or experienced harassment or discrimination should contact the Hate Crimes Task Force by calling 1-888-392-3644 from 9am to 5pm Monday through Friday or texting “HATE” to 81336. Reports can also be filed online here. If you need to report a crime or fear for your immediate safety, call 911 immediately.