The American, Israeli and Ukrainian flags in Niagara Square will fly at half-staff indefinitely in support of Israel and in remembrance of the lives lost as a result of the recent attacks, Mayor Byron Brown, in partnership with the Buffalo Common Council and Buffalo’s Jewish community, announced Thursday.

"Buffalo is the proud home to a large Jewish population and I want our Jewish community to know that we are doing everything we can to support and protect them during this challenging time," Mayor Brown said. "We are horrified by the unspeakable violence in Israel and condemn the attack by Hamas. The lives of innocent Israeli, Palestinian and American civilians must be protected as we continue to pray for peace in the Middle East and around the world."

The top of Buffalo City Hall will also remain lit in blue and white indefinitely.

"My prayers are with those suffering from this horrific violence and for a quick and peaceful resolution," said Buffalo Common Council President Darius Pridgen. "On behalf of the Buffalo Common Council, we stand in solidarity with the people of that region during this challenging time."

Mayor Brown announced that Buffalo police, working with Amherst police, have increased patrols near synagogues and other areas.

"We express our deepest gratitude to Mayor Brown and his administration for supporting the Buffalo Jewish community and standing in solidarity with the State of Israel during this difficult time," Buffalo Jewish Federation CEO Rob Goldberg said. "Our hearts and prayers are with all those impacted by this horrific act of terrorism."