Highlights
- Texas flags are at half-staff today to honor victims of Hamas attacks.
- Governor Abbott urges Texans to observe a moment of silence at 7 a.m.
- Seven Americans are still held hostage by Hamas, including Gadi Haggai and Judith Weinstein Haggai.
- Special ceremonies will be held in Austin and Dallas to honor the victims.
- Governor Abbott signed laws to ban Texas agencies from doing business with companies boycotting Israel.
- Religious leaders are asked to light candles in honor of victims and hostages.
Today, both Texas and U.S. flags are flying at half-staff in remembrance of the victims of the October 7 Hamas attacks in Israel.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has called for a statewide Day of Observance, urging all Texans to pause and honor the lives lost during the tragic events of 2023.
In addition to lowering flags, Governor Abbott encouraged Texans to hold a moment of silence at 7 a.m. and to take time to remember both the Israeli citizens who lost their lives and the seven Americans still being held hostage by Hamas.
Texans are also encouraged to offer prayers for the safe return of these captives.
Governor Abbott’s Actions in Support of Israel
Governor Abbott has take
n significant steps to support the Jewish community in Texas and stand firmly with Israel. Recently, he signed a law banning Texas state agencies from engaging with companies that boycott Israel.
He also allocated $14 million in grants to improve the security of religious institutions, including synagogues, and directed state agencies to avoid purchasing goods from Gaza or any entities linked to Hamas.
He highlighted these actions as part of his commitment to ensure that Texas supports Israel and protects its Jewish residents from harm.
Remembering the American Hostages
The Americans currently being held hostage by Hamas include Gadi Haggai, Omer Neutra, Edan Alexander, Sagui Dekel-Chen, Itay Chen, Keith Siegel, and Judith Weinstein Haggai.
Governor Abbott has urged people to keep these individuals in their thoughts and prayers, as well as to reflect on the devastating impact these events have had on their families.
Ceremonies and Observances Across Texas
To further honor the victims, special observances are taking place across the state.
In Austin, the governor will participate in a ceremony titled “Remembering October 7th,” where he will read aloud the names of the seven American hostages.
A similar event is planned in Dallas, where communities will gather to pay their respects.
Religious leaders have also been asked to light candles during their upcoming services, symbolizing hope and unity for the victims, hostages, and those affected by the ongoing conflict.
The Significance of October 7
October 7, 2023, marks the beginning of a violent conflict between Hamas and Israel, leading to several military operations by Israel in Gaza.
The aftermath of these attacks resulted in the loss of tens of thousands of civilian lives.
Texas is choosing to remember this day as a solemn reminder of the importance of peace, security, and unity in times of global conflict.
