Rallies held across Tri-State Area in support of Israel, Palestinians
NEW YORK - Communities across the Tri-State Area held rallies Tuesday, some in support of Israel and others supporting Palestinians.
At the Bernikow Jewish Community Center, elected officials from both parties and Staten Island community leaders spent Tuesday afternoon together pledging support for Israel in trying and scary times. Among the first to speak was Borough President Vito Fossella.
"The people Staten Island understand sadly what terrorism feels like, and today so do the people of Israel. When we were attacked, Israel stood with us. Now when Israel is attacked, we must stand with them," he said.
The event was organized by the Council of Jewish Organizations of Staten Island, tasked with fostering community engagement across the borough.
Phyllis Herskowitz watched the bipartisan group, who shared a strong unified message.
"I think it gives people hope that maybe people can come together and overlook differences and come out against such a horrendous act," she said.
Mayor Eric Adams and members of his administration held a moment of silence at City Hall. Deputy Mayor Fabien Levy read a statement saying the administration stands with Israel and prays for the innocent people who lost their lives, who have been kidnapped and innocent people from both sides caught in the middle. The administration also prays for the Jewish community here hurting at this time.
Meanwhile, New York City Schools Chancellor David Banks said the city will provide resources about the conflict. In a statement, the chancellor said the resources will be used to facilitate discussions about what's happening and support students in being compassionate global citizens.
He did not specify what those resources will be.
Banks also said that "hate of any kind has no home in New York City Public Schools."
There was also a show of support inside Eisenhower Park in East Meadow on Long Island for the people of Israel. A crowd of hundreds gathered Tuesday night for a solidarity event hosted by Nassau County Bruce Blakeman.
Across the Tri-State Area, various groups have been gathering day and night.
There were calls for a ceasefire at a demonstration at the corner of Market Street and Raymond Plaza West outside the Newark office of United States Sen. Cory Booker. It was organized by the New Jersey chapter of the group American Muslims for Palestine.
"There must be a call for an immediate ceasefire, a recognition of the reality of the Palestinian people and the oppression that they've faced for decades, and a condemnation of increased violence via blockade and other means by the Israeli government against the Palestinian people," said Wassim Kanaan, with American Muslims for Palestine.
The group is urging the senator to vote against sending additional tax dollars to Israel. We've reached out to Booker for comment but have not yet heard back.
It happened a few steps away from Newark Penn Station, timed to get the attention of Tuesday evening commuters and all those driving by.
In Hoboken, a vigil was held in solidarity with Israel. Community members of all ages gathered at Pier A Gazebo, holding Israeli flags, signs and candles to honor the victims of the attack.
Local politicians were in attendance alongside faith leaders and Gov. Phil Murphy, who delivered remarks.
"Though we may be separated by a great physical distance, in spirit, we are united in heartbreak and grief," he said.
Murphy says police patrols have been increased at schools, day cares and religious institutions as a precaution. He's also ordered flags to fly at half-staff until the end of this week.