New York Governor Kathy Hochul has ordered flags on all state buildings to be lowered to half-staff to honor Omer Neutra, a dual American-Israeli citizen whose death during the October 7 Hamas attacks was confirmed today. Hamas continues to hold his body in Gaza.
Neutra's story embodies the deep connections between New York and Israel. Born in Manhattan and raised on Long Island, he chose to serve in the IDF as a "lone soldier" - a term for those who join the Israeli military while their immediate family lives abroad. He was 21 when he was murdered.
Neutra's journey from Long Island to service in the IDF reflects a path chosen by numerous young American Jews. After graduating high school, he spent a year in Israel on a preparatory program before enlisting in the Israeli army's armored corps.
His parents, Ronen and Orna Neutra, had maintained hope for his safe return since October 7. Local community members had displayed banners with his image, part of the broader "Bring Them Home" campaign focused on the hostages held in Gaza.
Governor Hochul's order marks one of the rare occasions where New York State lowers its flags for a dual citizen killed overseas, underscoring the unique bonds between New York and Israel, and the impact of the October 7 attacks on New York communities.
May Omer Neutra's memory be a blessing.