Suffolk Reporter

Assemblyman Keith P. Brown, representing Northport, has expressed his support for the Jewish community in New York and across the United States, as well as for the State of Israel. Reflecting on events from a year ago when Hamas terrorists killed over 1,200 Israelis and took more than 250 hostages, including U.S. citizens, Brown emphasized the severity of these attacks.

“These horrific attacks on a U.S. ally threaten not only the State of Israel but also Jewish-American citizens around the world,” stated Brown. He described actions by Hamas and Iran as "heinous" and akin to "crimes against humanity."

Brown urged the Biden/Harris Administration to take decisive action to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas since October 7, 2023. He joined others in Albany earlier this year to advocate for their safe return.

Among those still held are Omer Neutra from Plainview, New York, and Edan Alexander from Tenafly, New Jersey—both former Israeli Defense Forces soldiers kidnapped last year. Sapir Cohen shared her survival story after being held hostage for 55 days; however, her boyfriend Sasha Trufanov remains captive in Gaza. As of September 1, 2024, there are still 101 hostages in captivity.

Brown pledged ongoing support for both the Jewish community and Israel until all hostages are freed. “We must do everything in our power to help Omer Neutra, Edan Alexander, Sasha Trufanov and all the other innocent people taken prisoner by Hamas return home safe," he asserted.

He also highlighted contributions made by Jewish-Americans to society and called for their protection under law without fear or violence due to their beliefs.

Brown concluded with a call for justice: “Bringing the hostages home and bringing justice to countless families affected by Hamas and Iranian terrorists need to be our top priorities.” He reiterated that New York State stands with Israel against these attacks.