Rally in Crown Heights calls for Hamas to release over 200 hostages
Hundreds of Jewish New Yorkers rallied in Crown Heights Friday afternoon, calling on Hamas to release over 200 hostages being held against their will.
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Hundreds of Jewish New Yorkers rallied in Crown Heights Friday afternoon, calling on Hamas to release over 200 hostages being held against their will.
A Shabbat dinner table was lined with linens and place settings on Eastern Parkway, with seats dedicated to a different person who has been kidnapped by Hamas.
The Israel-Hamas war has been raging since Oct. 7.
Israel Defense Forces announced Friday it plans on "expanding ground operations" in the Gaza Strip.
"There are more than 230 hostages who were kidnapped by Hamas, we will never forget Oct. 7," said Rabbi Yaacov Behrman, of Chabad Lubavitch speaking to hundreds gathered on Eastern Parkway.
"Fellow Jews, many of you are facing antisemitism and attacks but stand proud and stand strong. Do not be afraid!" said Behrman.
Several Jewish families who gathered Friday tell News 12 they have relatives overseas in Israel and Gaza.
"We will not be silent until every single hostage is reunited with their families," said Sam Stern, who is a community activist in Crown Heights.
