Thousands of people in Times Square viewed an empty Shabbat (Sabbath) table set for 224 people across Duffy Square between 45th and 47th streets today, symbolizing the 224 hostages being held captive by the terrorist group Hamas.
The installation by the Israeli-American Council (IAC) and other Jewish organizations also featured several relatives of hostages speaking about their plight. IAC is seeking to raise global awareness and generate public pressure to secure the hostages’ safe release. One week ago, IAC led a huge rally in Times Square with thousands of people and featuring 15 giant billboards spotlighting the faces and names of hostages.
Thousands of people today viewed the Shabbat table installation as well and heard speakers including the hostage family members demand the hostages be freed.