The Israeli military says 199 people are being held hostage in Gaza.

A local synagogue is trying to do all it can to help, as well as the city of Stamford.

"We stand shoulder to shoulder with you during this dark time," said Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons.

A crowd of people came to the Stamford Government Center Monday morning to raise the Israeli flag and stand with the Jewish people.

"It was a very strong show of support," said Rabbi Daniel Cohen, from Congregation Agudath Sholom in Stamford.

Cohen says Stamford, like hopefully every other city, will not tolerate hate or bigotry.

"What Hamas wants to do is infect our minds with fear. Infect our minds with anxiety so it's really important to fuel our minds and our hearts with positive energy," said Cohen.

Cohen wants to distribute signs around Stamford to try and help the people being held hostage in Israel.

"We need to let them know number one that they're not forgotten, number two every day we are praying for them," said Cohen.

Cohen says the hostage situation has hit close to our area.

The U.S. State Department has confirmed 30 Americans have died in the fighting, and the State Department believes another 13 may be missing.

There will be a rally of faith, strength and solidarity with Israel Tuesday at 4:45 p.m. at the Stamford Government Center.

It will be followed by a solidarity walk to Mill River Park with a song for peace.