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Gov. Greg Abbott calls for statewide Day of Observance in honor of Hamas attack victims, hostages

Gov. Greg Abbott is asking for a moment of silence at 7 a.m. and that flags be at half-staff on Monday, Oct. 7, 2024.
Credit: stock.adobe.

HOUSTON — Gov. Greg Abbott is asking Texans to honor the victims of the Hamas attacks on Israel on Monday the first anniversary.

Abbott calls for Monday to be part of a statewide Day of Observance.

The governor has asked that Texans remember the seven Americans who remain hostages of Hames.

Who are the American hostages in Gaza?

The Americans being held hostage are:

  • Edan Alexander
  • Itay Chen
  • Sagui Dekel-Chen
  • Gadi Haggai
  • Judith Weinstein Haggai
  • Omer Neutra
  • Keith Siegel

Ceremonies will also be held at noon in Austin and Dallas to honor the victims. In Austin, a "Remembering October 7th” ceremony will be held where the governor will read the names the seven American hostages.

RELATED: Pro-Palestinian and pro-Israeli crowds rally across the world on the eve of Oct. 7 anniversary

Moment of silence on Oct. 7

Last week, Abbott issued a proclamation calling for a statewide moment of silence at 7 a.m. to honor the victims.

Why are flags at half-staff today?

The governor will also lower the Texas and U.S. flags to half-staff and ask religious leaders to light a candle at their next service in observance.

Texas entities across the state will also organize displays featuring empty chairs to symbolize the seven Americans kept from their loved ones.

RELATED: Texas congressman asks President Biden to unlock all aid to Israel

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