In anticipation of widespread protests and potential threats of violence stemming from the Israel-Hamas conflict, several major US cities, including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Washington DC, have implemented heightened security measures, particularly around Jewish and Muslim places of worship.
In response to escalating tensions between Israel and Hamas in the Middle East, leave for police officers in multiple major cities has been canceled, with enhanced security measures surrounding synagogues, schools, and the Israeli embassy in Washington. Protests are expected both in the Middle East and across the United States, prompted by a call from Khaled Mashal, Hamas’ former leader, for a global day of “anger” to convey a “message of rage to Zionists and to America.”
The increased state of alert follows the recent attack by Hamas on southern Israel and the subsequent Israeli military operation in Gaza, which has resulted in casualties among both Israeli and Palestinian civilians.
Israel’s military has ordered the evacuation of over one million people in northern Gaza in preparation for a potential ground invasion. The United Nations has expressed grave concerns about the humanitarian consequences of such an operation, while Hamas has urged residents to remain in defiance, further intensifying the volatile situation.
This conflict has not only heightened tensions in the United States but also led to an uptick in threats and abuse directed at both Jewish and Muslim communities. This has raised concerns about potential violence during the expected protests.
The FBI has noted “calls for global action” on Friday, October 13th, and encourages the public to remain vigilant. The New York City Police Department is prepared to respond swiftly to any acts of disorder or hate.
Governor Kathy Hochul of New York reassured the public, stating that there are no credible threats that should cause alarm. Similar measures, including the cancellation of police leave, have been implemented in Los Angeles and Chicago. A recent bomb threat at a Chicago-area synagogue has prompted special attention to synagogues and mosques in the area.
In the wake of the Hamas attack, online calls for violence against “Jews, Israelis, and Zionists” via the Telegram platform have surged, with a 400% increase recorded by the Anti-Defamation League’s center on extremism. They are also monitoring reports of antisemitic assaults and vandalism, emphasizing that online threats often manifest in the real world.
The Council on American-Islamic Relations has reported an increase in Islamophobic acts, particularly in public high schools and university campuses. Some Muslim communities believe they are being unfairly targeted by authorities, with reports of FBI visits to mosques and individuals with Palestinian roots.
The situation remains tense, with communities on edge and law enforcement agencies on high alert as they work to maintain public safety during this period of heightened tension.
