The FBI and the Department of Homeland Security have noted that Jewish, Muslim or Arab institutions are “attractive targets for attacks.”
The first anniversary of the deadly terrorist attack in Israel and tensions in the Middle East could motivate extremist violence. The New York Police Department will increase patrols beginning October 7 and continuing for the next two weeks. CNN reports this citing a source in law enforcement agencies.
In a joint statement, the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security noted that Jewish, Muslim or Arab institutions, including synagogues, mosques/Islamic centers and community centers, as well as large public gatherings, are targets for violent attacks or threats by extremists and criminals motivated by hatred.
The agencies believe that foreign terrorist organizations will continue to use events in the Middle East, including actions by Israel, Hamas, Hezbollah and Iran, to incite lone terrorists to commit violence in the United States.
Lone Wolves, while not officially part of terrorist groups, pose a particular threat to law enforcement.