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2d ago

Israel Day Parade Highlights Jewish Pride and Calls for Hostage Freedom

Thousands in New York City celebrated Israeli identity while advocating for the release of 58 hostages still held by Hamas after 18 months.

A number of politicians marched during Israel Day on Fifth, including Gov. Kathy Hochul (fifth from left), Rep. Dan Goldman (second from left) and Israeli Consul General in New York Ofir Akunis (sixth from left). (Joseph Strauss)
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Overview

  • The Salute to Israel Parade in New York City drew thousands who celebrated Jewish culture and demanded action to free hostages held in Gaza since October 2023.
  • Families of the 58 remaining captives, including Ruby Chen, whose son Itay has been missing for 590 days, called for urgent government intervention.
  • Freed hostages Keith and Aviva Siegel shared harrowing accounts of torture and abuse during captivity to stress the humanitarian urgency of securing releases.
  • Prominent figures like Mayor Eric Adams, Gov. Kathy Hochul, and Sen. Chuck Schumer joined the march, emphasizing political support for the hostage families.
  • Participants, including wounded IDF soldiers, affirmed Israel’s right to self-defense and called for solidarity in addressing ongoing security and humanitarian challenges.