The death toll in Israel is climbing. Israeli media outlets are reported that 600 people have now died in attacks by the Gaza militant group Hamas. More than 2,000 have been injured. Hamas began attacking on Saturday, firing thousands of rockets and sending fighters into towns in southern Israel. In response, Israel has launched strikes that flattened buildings in Gaza, where more than 300 people, including 20 children, have been killed and nearly 2,000 injured.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken says there are reports of "several" Americans in Israel who were killed after Hamas' surprise attacks. Speaking on CNN's State of the Union, Blinken said the White House is "working overtime" on verifying information on Americans in Israel. He added that there are also reports of Americans who are missing, but he didn't indicate if any of them are being held captive. Blinken re-emphasized U.S. support for Israel and implied there will be news later today of specific "additional" requests made by Israel.
Officials in New York are saying they stand with Israel after the Hamas surprise attack Saturday. New York Governor Kathy Hochul said, "New York is proud to be home to the largest Jewish population outside Israel, and as governor I am committed to doing everything in my power to ensure this community is supported, uplifted, and protected." Houses of worship and other at-risk sites in New York City have been fortified with additional police protection. The Empire State Building and One World Trade will be lit up in blue and white to show solidarity with Israel.