NEW YORK — Some Jewish parents are debating whether to keep their kids home Friday after a former Hamas chief called for protests across the Muslim world.
Tim McNicholas, an investigative reporter for CBS New York, provides further insight into the impact of the heightened alert on both the Jewish and Palestinian communities.
Despite law enforcement leaders stating that there are currently no credible threats against the Tri-State Area, mosques, schools, and synagogues are still enhancing their security measures.
“There are no specific, credible threats to New York City. We are aware of the concern that postings circulating online have caused, and we have increased our uniform deployments at large gatherings and cultural sites to ensure public safety out of an abundance of caution.” pic.twitter.com/6mZ4sf7v6P
— NYPDCounterterrorism (@NYPDCT) October 12, 2023
On Thursday, the Kiddie Corner Pre-School at Congregation B’nai Avraham welcomed some recent arrivals. A NYPD car was stationed outside the Brooklyn Heights preschool and synagogue, indicating an increased security presence. Additionally, Rabbi Aaron Raskin shared plans to further enhance security by hiring additional private security guards.
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Raskin stated that our parents have been informed that they have the option to keep their children at home if they desire. This choice is acceptable. However, as a Jewish institution, we will remain open.
Sources told CBS New York the NYPD has directed all members scheduled for duty to report in uniform in anticipation of possible protests, and Gov. Kathy Hochul said she’s working with state police to increase security.
Hochul stated that they visited the intelligence center and proposed intensifying surveillance on all known areas and potential targets such as yeshivas, synagogues, museums, and other gathering places. They emphasized that New Yorkers should not be afraid and should not feel the need to change their daily lives or routines.
“We are working closely with law enforcement officers, our state partners and other cities across the country to monitor for potential threats and keep people safe,” Mayor Eric Adams said.
- Related: Gov. Kathy Hochul calls on Palestinians to reject “bloodthirsty, abhorrent” Hamas
Statement of Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin Regarding Continued Precautions Being Taken in New Jersey Due to the Terrorist Attacks in Israel. pic.twitter.com/eqnTruqO3s
— Attorney General Matt Platkin (@NewJerseyOAG) October 12, 2023
In Clifton, New Jersey, the Palestinian American Community Center usually operates with open doors. However, the staff has recently announced that they will only grant entry to individuals by buzzing them in.
On Thursday, Fedah Mohammed recounted a phone conversation with the center.
Mohammed recounted, “He uttered highly inappropriate remarks towards us, and concluded by exclaiming, ‘Long live Israel,’ before abruptly ending the call.”
- Related: Why did Hamas attack Israel, and why now?
According to Mohammed, local mosques are implementing enhanced security measures for Friday prayer.
In addition, the Jewish Security Alliance has issued recommendations concerning security measures to ensure the safety of community centers.
Security outside of Barclays Center was beefed up on Thursday night. While no gathering happened here, the NYPD was ready there and in other parts of the Tri-State Area.
Amidst a week of attacks in their homeland, Israeli basketball fans gathered outside of Tel Aviv to show their unwavering support for their team during the exhibition game against Maccabi Ra’anana.
One fan expressed their solidarity with Israel, stating that they were from the country and had come to support the Israeli group as it was their homeland.
Officers and K-9s were clearly on high alert outside the arena, ensuring tight security measures.
One individual remarked, “It seems that they are ready. Hopefully, they are excessively prepared.”
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