U.S. security authorities issue warnings about potential dangers connected to the October 7th commemoration
Despite lack of concrete dangers to the USA, the warning emerges before Monday's anniversary of the October 7th attack in Israel and exhortations for violence against the West by external terrorist groups, mentioned the agencies.
The advisory surfaced at a time when Israel engages in lethal attacks on Hezbollah headquarters in Lebanon, and as it deliberates on a response to Iran's recent missile assault.
According to CNN, police forces nationwide have boosted their presence around Jewish and Muslim places of worship in response to escalating Middle Eastern tensions, the upcoming October 7 anniversary, and the Jewish High Holidays.
The New York Police Department stepped up patrols on Monday, a police insider informed CNN. These enhanced security measures are expected to continue for the subsequent two weeks. The NYPD will also collaborate with state police for explosives checks at bridges and tunnels, and helicopter units will be employed for radiation detection, the source detailed.
Moreover, the Los Angeles Police Department declared last week that it would increase its patrols, featuring more officers on duty, command post vehicles, and mounted horse units.
Similarly, police departments in Chicago, Miami, and Philadelphia have beefed up their security efforts.
In their joint statement on Friday, the FBI and DHS stated: “Jewish, Muslim, or Arab establishments — such as synagogues, mosques/Islamic centers, and community centers — and large public gatherings, including memorials, vigils, or other lawful demonstrations, are appealing targets for violent attacks or deceitful threats by a variety of threat actors, including violent extremists and hate crime perpetrators.”
“Always keep a watchful eye on your surroundings and report suspicious activities to the authorities,” their announcement echoed.
The agencies suspect that foreign terrorist organizations will persistently exploit tensions involving Israel, Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran to provoke lone attackers into acts of violence in the USA.
These so-called “lone wolves,” who aren't affiliated with any terror group, present a particularly formidable challenge to law enforcement, intelligence officials have priorly disclosed to CNN.
“A group of terrorists interacting with each other offers multiple opportunities for potential exploitation using our surveillance capabilities,” one source remarked, however, emphasized the daunting task of detecting a solitary individual who may not reveal their attack plans.
Amidst these heightened security measures, it's crucial for community members to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to us, the authorities.
Given the current global situation, it's essential for us, the law enforcement agencies, to stay alert and work closely with other agencies to prevent potential attacks.
