After turmoil in the Middle East divided some New Yorkers this morning — pro-Israel elected officials rallying on the City Hall steps, pro-Palestine protestors shouting from beyond the gates — Mayor Bill de Blasio said it was “absolutely” appropriate for local officials to voice support for Israel.

“Absolutely. I am a mayor of the city on the Earth with the largest Jewish population of anywhere on this Earth,” Mr. de Blasio told the Observer.