Narcisse ‘deeply saddened by devastating loss of life’ on both sides in Israeli-Hamas war

Brooklyn Democratic Council Member Mercedes Narcisse on Tuesday expressed sadness over what she describes as the “devastating loss of life” on both sides of the Israeli-Hamas war.

“In the recent escalation of violence between Israel and Hamas, I am deeply saddened by the devastating loss of life on both sides,” Narcisse, the Haitian-born representative for the 46th Council District in Brooklyn, told Caribbean Life. “My heart goes out to all families affected, whether they are in Israel or in Gaza.

“In this difficult time, it’s more important than ever to remember our shared humanity and the bonds that unite us, rather than the issues that divide us,” she added. “I unequivocally condemn all forms of terrorism and violence, from wherever they emanate.

“No cause or grievance justifies the targeting of innocent civilians,” Narcisse continued. “The reports of massacres, hostage-taking, and large-scale rocket attacks are particularly distressing.”

The Council Member called on leaders on both sides to “engage in meaningful dialogue, cease hostilities, and work towards a peaceful and sustainable solution.

“It is the ordinary people, the civilians, who bear the brunt of these conflicts, and it’s our collective responsibility to champion peace and understanding,” she said. “Let us all pray for peace, work towards dialogue, and remember that every life is invaluable, irrespective of nationality or religion.”

Council Member Mercedes Narcisse speaks at the Masjid Aisha Mill Basin Islamic Center in Brooklyn. Photo courtesy Office of Council Member Mercedes Narcisse/Frank Shea

In response to the terrorist attack on Israel by Hamas militants that killed over 300 people, Brooklyn Democratic Party Chair Assemblywoman Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn, the daughter of Haitian immigrants, on Oct. 8, vehemently condemned the attack.

“The Brooklyn Democratic Party strongly condemns the heinous and unconscionable assault on Israel by Hamas during Simchat Torah, one of the most sacred Jewish holidays,” said Bichotte Hermelyn, who represents the 42nd Assembly District in Brooklyn. “Our hearts break for the hundreds who perished, as we pray for the recovery of the thousands of wounded victims, and the safe return of the abducted Israelis.

“We stand in solemn solidarity with Israel and its people who have lost loved ones,” she added, stating that Brooklyn is home to the largest Jewish population outside Israel, “and we extend our deepest compassion for the communities and our neighbors affected by this tragedy.”

Bichotte Hermelyn said the Democratic Party echoes the “rock solid and unwavering” support of Israel stated by President Joe Biden, “as we denounce the inhumane terrorism against the Jewish people on their homeland.

“We are united in prayer for peace and recovery,” she said.