New York Gov. Kathy Hochul met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday to offer her state’s concern for the local population and discuss efforts to rescue constituents taken hostage.
Ms. Hochul, a Democrat whose state is home to the largest Jewish population outside of Israel, is touring the Middle East ally to offer sympathy and comfort after the Oct. 7 raids in which Hamas terrorists killed more than 1,000 people, including 30 Americans.
The governor, writing on X, posted a photo of her walking and talking with Mr. Netanyahu.
“We discussed the urgent need to bring everyone home safely, as 203 hostages, including New Yorkers, remain Hamas’ captives,” she wrote. “I emphasized New Yorkers’ concern for all who are in pain following this terrible attack.”
Ms. Hochul also met with Israeli President Isaac Herzog to express New York’s solidarity with his country and offered a prayer at the Western Wall in Jerusalem.
“I prayed for the victims of Hamas’ horrific attacks, their families and all the innocent civilians lost as a result,” she wrote. “I believe the arc of the universe bends toward justice. We pray for a peaceful future.”
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One day earlier, the governor met with volunteers helping displaced Israelis and with victims who experienced what she called “hell on Earth” when Hamas attacked Israeli communities.
President Biden visited the country Wednesday to express support for the Israelis’ operation, though warned them not to let their rage add to civilian suffering in the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip.
New York Democrats like Ms. Hochul have been vocal in their support of Israel.
Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer, who is Jewish, led a bipartisan trip to Israel over the weekend, and New York City Mayor Eric Adams told the city’s Jewish community that Israel “has a right to defend itself” and “your fight is our fight.”
• Tom Howell Jr. can be reached at thowell@washingtontimes.com.
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