US cities boost security as fears spread over Israel-Hamas war despite lack of credible threats

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US cities have heightened security measures in response to concerns stemming from the Israel-Hamas conflict, despite the absence of credible threats. Law enforcement agencies in cities such as New York and Los Angeles have increased patrols, and security measures, including fencing around the U.S. Capitol, have been put in place. Some schools even temporarily closed in response to these apprehensions.

The catalyst for this increased security was a call for a “day of rage” by a former Hamas leader, which has put American Jewish communities on edge. Consequently, security has been bolstered around houses of worship, schools, and cultural institutions. This reaction highlights the global impact of the Israel-Hamas conflict, as it has generated fear and unease even in the absence of any confirmed threats.

Law enforcement officials have expressed particular concern about the potential for violence driven by antisemitic or Islamophobic sentiments following the Hamas attack on Israel. Jewish and Muslim groups have reported a surge in hateful and threatening rhetoric on social media platforms.

FBI Director Christopher Wray emphasized the need to remain vigilant, as there is a possibility that Hamas or other foreign terrorist organizations might exploit the conflict to incite attacks within the United States.

The escalating conflict has left individuals like Ashley Reyes, a Jewish resident of Montclair, New Jersey, feeling less secure and worried for her child’s safety. This unease has led to conversations about concealing one’s identity out of fear.

Meanwhile, the Palestinian American Community Center in Clifton, New Jersey, has faced an increase in harassing communications via phone calls, emails, and social media messages. They have responded by restricting access to their facility to known individuals only.

In response to these concerns, New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced additional police patrols in certain neighborhoods and allocated extra resources to schools and places of worship. The presence of law enforcement has been notable at protests, rallies, and vigils in the city, with some synagogues hiring private security guards.

Both Mayor Adams and New York Governor Kathy Hochul emphasized that there is no credible threat against the city or the state. They encouraged New Yorkers not to alter their daily lives unnecessarily, as doing so would be giving in to the terrorists.

In a separate incident, a New York City councilmember, Inna Vernikov, was arrested for carrying a handgun during a student demonstration supporting Palestinians. Vernikov, who is Jewish, has been a vocal opponent of Palestinian activists, but her actions have sparked controversy.

The Israel-Hamas conflict has also led to dueling protests and increased security measures at educational institutions. Columbia University limited access to its Manhattan campus during planned demonstrations, while Las Vegas’ Innovations International Charter School canceled classes as a precaution.

Police departments in various cities, including Los Angeles, Westchester County, New York, and Boston, have been actively engaging with Jewish and Muslim communities, providing extra patrols and security.

The Secure Community Network, which advises U.S. Jewish institutions on security matters, has encouraged vigilance but advised institutions not to close their doors unless specific information from law enforcement suggests otherwise. Its CEO, Michael Masters, urged communities not to succumb to fear or online threats, emphasizing the need to stand firm in the face of adversity.

In summary, U.S. cities have responded with increased security measures due to concerns related to the Israel-Hamas conflict, despite a lack of confirmed threats. This response reflects the global impact of the conflict and the importance of vigilance in the face of potential violence driven by extremist sentiments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Security Measures

More about Security Measures

• Israel-Hamas Conflict – Information about the Israel-Hamas conflict that has prompted security measures.
• FBI Director Christopher Wray – FBI Director Christopher Wray’s comments on potential threats in the wake of the conflict.
• Secure Community Network – The organization providing security advice to U.S. Jewish institutions.
• Columbia University – Details on the security measures taken by Columbia University in response to demonstrations related to the conflict.
• New York City Mayor Eric Adams – Statements from Mayor Eric Adams regarding security in New York City.
• Innovations International Charter School – Information about the school in Las Vegas that canceled classes as a precaution.
• Michael Masters – CEO of the Secure Community Network, discussing security concerns and responses in Jewish communities.