Supporting each other as we grieve for Israel

Paul –

I feel like my heart has been ripped to pieces.

One horrifying detail after another is emerging from Israel in the wake of the heinous attacks by Hamas. So many of us in New York City have deep ties to Israel, myself included, and we have acutely felt this pain and loss.

I know that the vast majority of New Yorkers, regardless of background, are repulsed and horrified by the Hamas attacks. I was so proud of the diverse Upper Manhattan community, which came out in the 100s at our vigil on Sunday night. Similar vigils around the city this week have shown New Yorkers at their best.

Our pain will enter a new phase when the identities of the Americans killed or kidnapped are revealed, as this will certainly include many New Yorkers.

Tragically, the residents of Gaza themselves are also victims of Hamas. I grieve for these losses as well. My desperate hope is that a new Middle East emerges from this crisis, in which both Israelis and Palestinians can at last live in a secure, just peace.

The days ahead will be difficult. New Yorkers will not be immune from the pain. It will be more important than ever that we support each other during this time of trauma.

I know New Yorkers will respond generously in the current crisis, as we always do.  Thank you for helping in any way you can.

Standing together,

Mark