A newly hired teacher at P.S. K77 in Brooklyn is under investigation following allegations of expressing support for a Hamas leader linked to the October 7 attack in Israel that resulted in significant casualties. The teacher, identified by advocacy group StopAntisemitism as Neva, reportedly posted on social media praising Yahya al-Sinwar, the former head of Hamas who was widely regarded as the chief architect of the assault that killed more than 1,100 people and took over 250 hostages.

According to the group, Neva's posts included a crossed-out image of Israel, raising concerns amid Brooklyn’s substantial Jewish population, which includes roughly 157,000 Jewish children. StopAntisemitism highlighted the impact such support could have in an educational setting.

Yahya al-Sinwar was a notorious figure within Hamas, known for his role in brutal internal crackdowns before assuming leadership. He admitted to personally killing Palestinians suspected of collaboration with Israel. Following his leadership in the October 2023 attack, Israeli Defense Forces targeted and killed Sinwar in Gaza in October 2024 after prolonged efforts to locate him within underground tunnels.

Former Brooklyn assemblyman Dov Hikind, founder of Americans Against Antisemitism, called for the immediate dismissal of the teacher. Hikind emphasized the severity of Sinwar’s actions, labeling the attack a massacre involving widespread cruelty and sexual violence. He argued that it is unacceptable for anyone who praises such a figure to hold a teaching position, comparing the situation to if a teacher publicly supported Adolf Hitler.

“We need transparency and action,” Hikind said. “This teacher needs to be fired—period.”

The New York City Department of Education (DOE), led by Schools Chancellor Kamar Samuels, has responded by initiating an investigation into the matter. A spokesperson stated that the DOE has a zero-tolerance policy toward antisemitism and support for terrorist organizations within its schools, underscoring a commitment to maintaining an inclusive and respectful environment for all students and staff.

This case has been documented and referred for review in accordance with established Chancellor’s Regulations. The DOE did not disclose any further details pending the outcome of the investigation.