Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt & Antisemitism Working Group Lead Senate GOP In A Letter Calling On The Governor To Help New Yorkers Stranded In Israel

Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt, along with members of the Senate Republican Antisemitism Working Group, in a letter urged Governor Kathy Hochul to take immediate action to help New Yorkers who are residing, studying, or traveling in Israel return home safely.

In the letter, the Republican lawmakers point to recent actions by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, and urged Governor Hochul to use their efforts as a blueprint to ensure the safe return of New Yorkers as the conflict with Iran continues to escalate.

“Ensuring the safety of New Yorkers who are currently unable to return home as conditions in Israel continue to deteriorate is paramount. Governor Hochul must take action to provide safe transport for our fellow New Yorkers amidst the escalating conflict with Iran,” said Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt.

“New York’s connection to Israel is unmatched, and so is our responsibility. Our state should lead in standing with Israel, supporting Jewish communities under threat, and providing urgent help to New Yorkers caught in harm’s way,” the letter reads.

“We stand in full solidarity with Israel, with our Jewish community here in New York and with our residents currently stranded in Israel. With Israeli airspace currently closed and the dangerous and uncertain situation on the ground, we urge Governor Hochul to act immediately to bring home all New Yorkers currently in harm’s way. Our commitment to their safety reflects our shared values of unity and resolve that define us as New Yorkers,” stated Senator Jack M. Martins, Chair of the Antisemitism Working Group.

“Our state has a moral obligation to act swiftly and decisively to ensure the safety of New Yorkers, and that includes helping to bring home our residents who may be in harm’s way home. Our bond with Israel runs deep, and so must our response as thousands of New Yorkers are currently in the increasingly volatile region. We’re calling on Governor Hochul to coordinate emergency flights, and stand up for New Yorkers both home and abroad. The time to act is now,” stated Senator Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, member of the Antisemitism Working Group. n