State and federal leaders offered their thoughts and reactions to Saturday’s attacks on Iran by the United States and Israel over the weekend. Along party lines, there was praise for the assault or criticism.

— State Gov. Kathy Hochul: “Following the U.S. military operations in Iran overnight, we are taking precautionary steps to protect New Yorkers. State Police are increasing their presence at religious, diplomatic, and cultural sites statewide in coordination with federal, state, and local law enforcement partners. Additionally, in advance of the Jewish holiday of Purim, State Police remain alert and have already begun outreach to religious organizations to offer support.

“While there have been no specific, credible threats to New York identified, we continue to monitor online activity for any potential threats, and we encourage New Yorkers to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity.”

— U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand: “I came to Congress in opposition to endless wars. Trump’s actions today risk exactly that again.

“Congress should return to session immediately to vote on a war powers resolution.

“The president lacks the constitutional authority – and in my opinion, the temperament and judgment – to act in such a reckless fashion.

“I pray for the safety and well-being of our brave service members and American families in the region.

“America voted for lower costs, not forever wars.”

— U.S. Rep. Nick Langworthy of District 23 in New York state: “The Iranian regime is the world’s number one sponsor of terror and has the blood of thousands of Americans on its hands. Their ‘Death to America’ chants and desire to annihilate Israel are not slogans, they are actively building the nuclear weapons and missile capabilities to make it a reality and over the last four decades have taken every opportunity to kill.

“President Trump has given them numerous chances to deescalate and has successfully built allied relationships with the rest of the Middle East region, who are supportive of the Epic Fury operation. The Gang of 8 was also briefed and has conveyed the grave importance of stopping Iran’s military capabilities. This mission is about protecting our homeland and finishing the job of blocking this murderous regime from obtaining a nuclear weapon. It should be very telling that while our strikes are isolated to military targets, Iran has begun indiscriminate bombings of civilian locations.

“May God watch over our incredible U.S. Servicemembers who are tasked with this mission and those deployed across the region. This is a moment for us to stand united for lasting peace for America, the Iranian people, and all countries across the Middle East.

“It is also a time that we must be extra vigilant on our own soil and Democrats must stop blocking funding for the Department of Homeland Security so it can immediately reopen. Time is of the essence.”

Area residents also reacted in Fredonia during Sunday afternoon as a peace vigil was scheduled to take place at Barker Common. Organizers said the event was “open to all who wish to gather in solidarity for world peace.”