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Westchester's Jewish community marks six months of the Israel-Hamas war

Families of people taken hostage shared their first-hand experiences during the war and urged any measure that would reunite them with their loved ones.

Jonathan Gordon

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Apr 8, 2024, 10:13 PM

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One thousand people - in-person and virtually - gathered at Congregation Kol Ami in White Plains on Monday night to mark six months since the beginning of the Israel-Hamas war.

They called for the 130 remaining Israeli hostages to be released immediately.

"We've watched as the world has forgotten about the people who still sit in darkness. Held hostage away from their family, their friends, and their community, but we will not forget," Congregation Kol Ami Rabbi Jason Fenster said.

Families of people taken hostage spoke at the event. They shared their first-hand experiences during the war and urged any measure that would reunite them with their loved ones.

Leat Unger shared the story of her cousin Omer Shem Tov, who is still being held hostage by Hamas.

"When Omer comes home, and we pray that he'll be at the Pesach table, we'll be able to share with him how many people around the world have prayed for him and waited for him and stood with us," Unger said.

Negotiations for any peace deal remain at a standstill.

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