If you see flags at half-staff today (Thursday), they are there by order of Governor Jay Inslee, in recognition of the attack on Israel by Hamas on Saturday. In the Governor's directive, he recognized one of the victims, Hayim Katsman, who came to Washington state to study at the University of Washington’s Jackson School of International Studies and received his doctorate in June of 2021.
The Governor has directed that Washington State and United States flags at all state agency facilities be lowered to half-staff today. In the Governor's words, the directive is issued, quoting here, in recognition of the lives lost, the wishes of all Washingtonians for the swift recovery of the injured as well as the safe release of those held hostage, and in recognition of the sacrifice and service of members of the U.S. Armed Forces now deployed to the region, end quote.
Other government entities, citizens and businesses are encouraged to join this recognition.
Flags should remain at half-staff until close of business or sunset today.