Governor Kathy Hochul has issued a powerful statement addressing the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, urging swift international action to ensure the delivery of aid and calling for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

Reacting to the arrival of U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff in Israel, Hochul emphasized that this moment must mark a turning point.

“The reports that continue to emerge are harrowing,” she said. “I am calling for Israel to work with the United States and the international community to immediately ensure sustained humanitarian aid can reach civilians.”

Governor Hochul condemned the dire conditions faced by civilians in Gaza, especially children. “Allowing innocent children to starve to death is simply unconscionable, and as a mother my heart is broken by these images of famine,” she said.

While reaffirming her long-standing support for Israel, Hochul stressed that true solidarity means urging moral accountability. “I have always been a strong supporter of Israel. I visited Kfar Aza in the immediate aftermath of October 7th, mourned with families who had lost loved ones to the attacks by Hamas, and in the more than 600 days since I have continued to advocate for the release of all hostages,” she stated.

“But support for the people of Israel also requires us to demand that the Israeli government do what is right,” she added.

She further urged continued international pressure on Hamas to release all remaining hostages, and called for an end to the prolonged conflict. “This humanitarian crisis has gone on for too long, and it is time to secure a lasting peace that protects the lives of both Israelis and Palestinians,” the governor concluded.