Security for Hanukkah events was stepped up in major US cities on Sunday after a terrorist attack on a Jewish congregation in Sydney’s Bondi Beach killed at least 15 people.
Cities across the country, from New York on the East Coast to Los Angeles and San Francisco in the West, tightened security for Jewish places of worship and Hanukkah events and condemned the attack.
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New York City
The New York Police Department (NYPD) on Sunday welcomed the Jewish community and marked the first day of Hanukkah, providing a threat assessment and an update on security measures.
“While there is no specific or credible threat to Hanukkah celebrations at this time, the NYPD will be out in force at events and synagogues to allow our communities to gather safely,” the department said.
“The story of Hanukkah is an important reminder of the power of light over darkness, and that message is especially relevant today,” the NYPD said.
The department urged residents to report any suspicious activity to its terrorism hotline at 888-NYC-SAFE.
Los Angeles
On the other side of the country, the Los Angeles Police Department also announced increased security measures for Hanukkah.
“While there is no known threat to Los Angeles at this time, the LAPD remains vigilant and committed to protecting our diverse communities. As part of this commitment, the LAPD will provide additional patrols at Jewish facilities, schools, synagogues and Hanukkah events throughout the city,” the department said, adding that it stands in solidarity with the Jewish community.
“Together we can honor the spirit of Hanukkah by standing united against hatred and violence,” the ministry said.
She further urged all residents, especially those attending synagogues and participating in Hanukkah celebrations, to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity.
The LAPD also encouraged community and faith leaders to review security protocols and contact the department for additional patrols or support.
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Chicago
The Chicago Police Department also announced “special attention” to some locations on Sunday following the Bondi Beach shooting.
“The Chicago Police Department is monitoring the situation in Sydney, Australia. While there is no actionable information available at this time, places of worship and religious community centers are being monitored,” the department said.
San Francisco
The San Francisco Police Department also issued a strong anti-Semitism warning and advised people of heightened security at places of worship and Jewish events throughout the city.
“SFPD has increased patrols at places of worship and Jewish events throughout the city. Our officers remain vigilant and ready to respond to any emergency,” the department said.
He also asked residents to report suspicious activity by calling 415-575-444 or texting a tip to TIP411. In the event of an emergency, SFPD advised people to contact 911.
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dallas
The Dallas Police Department has issued a public notice regarding increased security.
“With the start of Hanukkah tonight, the department will maintain an established presence and heightened awareness at related events and locations throughout the city. We are proactively evaluating and improving security measures and maintaining close communication with our public safety partners,” Dallas PD said, adding that there were “no credible threats” to the city at this time.
“Following recent incidents of violence in the United States and abroad, including the Bondi Beach attack and the Brown University shooting, Dallas police remain vigilant and closely monitor events across the country for potential impact on our diverse city,” the department added.
Phoenix
The Phoenix Police Department extended its sympathies to the families of the victims and the Jewish community, adding that it would increase patrols at potential targets.
“Out of an abundance of caution and in cooperation with community leaders, the Phoenix Police Department will increase patrols and increase visibility at synagogues and other religious institutions and events throughout our city as we enter this season of religious observance,” Phoenix PD said.
“There is no known threat to our community at this time,” he added.
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San Diego
The San Diego Police Department condemned the “horrific attack” in Sydney and said that while there were no threats in the city, it would remain vigilant.
“While there are no known threats, the San Diego Police Department is working closely with our law enforcement partners and, out of an abundance of caution, will increase patrols near houses of worship and community events,” the department said.
“We understand the real fear that acts of violence like this are spreading through our communities. It is a reminder to all of us to remain vigilant,” it added.
Miami
Miami Beach police also extended their prayers after the attack and said they were increasing security at key locations around the city.
“As a precautionary measure, we have increased our uniformed presence at synagogues, schools and other key locations throughout the city to help ensure the continued safety of our residents and visitors,” the ministry said, confirming there was no credible threat to residents’ safety.
“As we observe the first night of Hanukkah – a time of light, reflection and resilience – we urge everyone to remain vigilant and report any suspicious or illegal activity immediately,” the statement said.
Police also advised people to call 911 in case of emergency and 305.673.7901 for other needs.
Other cities
Similar measures could very likely apply to other cities and regions. Residents are encouraged to check with their local and regional police departments for the latest updates.
