Gaza conflict: New York team heads to 'good friend' Israel to express solidarity

New York, Aug 12: A delegation from New York will visit Israel this week to display their solidarity with the country in its war against

group, said a AP report. The visit comes after an Israeli invitation.

The conflict between Israel and Hamas has killed more than 1900 people in Palestine this year.

The team headed by Governor Andrew Cuomo includes top state legislators. Cuomo, Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver and Senate co-leaders Dean Skelos and Jeff Klein will travel to Israel on Tuesday, said the report.The delegation will meet Israeli leaders and visit residents hit by the conflict during the two-day visit.

"Friends stand together in times of crisis, and I am proud to lead this bipartisan delegation to Israel to reaffirm our friendship and support," Cuomo said in a statement emailed to reporters, said the AP report.

"New York has always had a special relationship with Israel. As Hamas and other terrorist organizations continue to threaten Israel, now is the time to deliver that message of solidarity in person," he said.

A friend in need

New York has around 1.7 million Jews - The largest concentration outside of Israel.

Israel conveyed gratitude for New York's support.

"We are grateful for the governor's support and words of encouragement," said Ido Aharoni, Israel's consul general in New York.

Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver, who is Jewish, said its essential to expres New york's solidarity with Israel and its people, especially during these difficult times.

Silver and Klein are Democrats and Skelos is a Republican.

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