TRENTON, NJ – In response to the devastating attacks in Israel and the Mideast region, Governor Phil Murphy has signed Executive Order No. 345. This mandates that both U.S. and New Jersey flags be flown at half-staff from Tuesday, October 10 through Friday, October 13.
The decision comes as a gesture of respect and mourning for the numerous lives tragically taken in recent events.
Hamas terrorists initiated a series of coordinated assaults in Israel, which were timed to coincide with the Jewish holiday of Simchat Torah and Shabbat. The attacks resulted in the death of over 800 Israeli civilians, including at least eleven U.S. citizens.
Thousands more were left injured. These events led to further conflict, culminating in the loss of hundreds of Palestinian lives. The total number of casualties could rise as new reports come in.
Governor Murphy commented on the tragedy, emphasizing New Jersey’s deep connection with Israel. “New Jersey is proud of our enduring bond with the State of Israel, being home to one of the largest Jewish and Israeli American communities globally. We mourn the victims and their families, firmly denounce all acts of terrorism on innocent civilians, and hope for lasting peace and safety for all people in the area.”