Flags on state buildings across New York will be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Tuesday, October 7, as ordered by Governor Kathy Hochul. This action marks the second anniversary of the Hamas attack on Israel and is intended to honor the victims of that day.
In addition to lowering flags, several landmarks throughout the state will be illuminated in yellow. The gesture is meant to show solidarity with Israel and recognize the 48 hostages who remain unaccounted for since the attack.
Governor Hochul stated, “Two years after the horrific attack on the people of Israel, we stand with Jewish people in New York and around the world today and every day, and remember the victims of that tragic day and those still held hostage today. As the home of the largest Jewish population outside of Israel, we mourn this tragedy and continue to pray for the safe return of the remaining hostages, an end to the war, and a lasting peace.”
Among the landmarks set to be lit are One World Trade Center, Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge, Kosciuszko Bridge, H. Carl McCall SUNY Building, State Education Building, Alfred E. Smith State Office Building, Empire State Plaza, State Fairgrounds Main Gate & Expo Center, Niagara Falls, Franklin D. Roosevelt Mid-Hudson Bridge, Grand Central Terminal’s Pershing Square Viaduct, Albany International Airport Gateway, MTA LIRR East End Gateway at Penn Station, Fairport Lift Bridge over Erie Canal, and Moynihan Train Hall.
The announcement follows an incident earlier in Manchester, England during Yom Kippur—considered Judaism’s holiest day—which was disrupted by an act of antisemitic violence. In response to security concerns stemming from such events abroad and heightened tensions surrounding anniversaries like October 7th’s attack on Israel, Governor Hochul has instructed New York State Police to increase patrols at religious sites across New York. Outreach efforts are also underway within Jewish communities statewide. Uniformed patrols have been increased this week while specialized teams from the Counter Terrorism Intelligence Unit (CTIU) remain active.
