North Charlotte Today

While Democratic Governor Roy Cooper is currently abroad, he has issued a proclamation designating a day of prayer and officially declaring North Carolina Solidarity with Israel Week across the state. 

Governor Cooper expressed his support for Israel's right to defend itself from violence, stating, "I stand with Israel and its right to defend itself from barbaric violence." He also called on Congress to provide the funding requested by President Biden and emphasized the importance of continuing and increasing humanitarian aid to Gaza while protecting innocent civilians. Governor Cooper condemned the atrocities committed by Hamas and called for the immediate release of the hostages they had kidnapped. He emphasized that Hamas cannot be allowed to continue its reign of terror that also harms the Palestinian people.

Serving as acting governor in the absence of Democratic Governor Roy Cooper, North Carolina Republican Lieutenant Governor Mark Robinson has declared a proclamation for a day of prayer and the observance of North Carolina Solidarity with Israel Week throughout the states, according to The News and Observer article. Robinson, who has faced criticism for previous antisemitic remarks, addressed some of these comments during a recent news conference, stating that he has "never been antisemitic." “We honor and mourn the victims of the terrorist attacks by Hamas and their allies against Israel,” Robinson said.

Hamas, designated as a terrorist organization by the U.S. government, conducted a series of deadly attacks on Israel, resulting in over 1,200 Israeli casualties and between 100 and 150 hostages. Israel retaliated with strikes on Gaza, resulting in at least 1,200 Palestinian casualties. Lieutenant Governor Robinson acknowledged the tragic events and commended Republican and many Democratic leaders for expressing support in the General Assembly. Some Democrats who did not endorse the resolution faced criticism for downplaying their response to antisemitic comments within their party. (Source)

In honor of North Carolina's unwavering support for Israel and in memory of the thousands of innocent civilians who lost their lives, Governor Cooper ordered that all United States and North Carolina flags at state facilities be flown at half-staff. This tribute will continue until sunset on Thursday, Oct 19th, 2023. Governor Cooper expressed his resolute support and solidarity with the Israeli people during this difficult period. He condemned the acts of terrorism carried out by Hamas against innocent civilians and offered his prayers for a swift resolution to the conflict. (Source)