Groups plea to politicians for ceasefire in ongoing conflict

More than 50 people rallied Wednesday in downtown Raleigh to urge state and federal lawmakers to promote de-escalation.

They specifically spoke against a statement by Gov. Roy Cooper's team that only pledged support for the people of Israel.

A plea for weapons to be dropped and peaceful negotiations to take their place.

"There's no military solution, only a political solution," Matthew Hoh said.

A multitude of voices are urging the U.S. government to endorse a ceasefire and halt the provision of military aid to Israel.

"The United States is completely complicit in it," Faisal Khan said. "There's no question about it."

The demonstration was a vigil for civilian lives lost in Israel and Gaza.

"My community–we are really struggling, deeply and profoundly," Rabbi Eric Solomon said.

Solomon of Beth Meyer synagogue also mourns for people in Gaza while condemning Hamas terrorism.

"I understand a vigil for those who are suffering however, I do not and will never understand massacres of babies being somehow being righteous," Solomon said. "That is absolutely contradictory. It's repugnant."

While some photos of murdered babies were released by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office, claims of babies being widely massacred has not been proven nor confirmed.

Solomon says the Israeli community stands behind self-defense, preservation and bringing captives back.

"We protect and secure our community and many people are coming in and doubling down that they won't let anti-Semites or terrorists affect us being proud Jews," Solomon said.

Both members of the Muslim community and Jewish community say they feel susceptible to hate crimes. They say it's triggered a lot of anxiety for them.