Press Releases

Yesterday, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17), a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, sent a letter to Secretary Blinken demanding answers on the State Department's plan to account for, and ensure the safety of American citizens in Israel.

"While we must work to ensure that Israel has all of the weaponry and equipment needed to defend itself, we must also address the situation that our own citizens find themselves in at the moment as well," Congressman Lawler (NY-17) said in the letter. "As casualties continue to rise into the thousands, Americans are fearing for their lives and searching for ways to return to the United States. However, flights are being cancelled and airlines are suspending operations in the region, stranding thousands without a way home."

The Associated Press reported this morning that at least 9 Americans have been killed by Hamas in the weekend attacks. Thousands of American citizens are currently in Israel, including hundreds of residents from New York's 17th Congressional District.

New York's 17th Congressional District is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties.