Security Update from Jewish Future Alliance: In response to Hamas calls for a Day of Rage, there will be an increased law enforcement presence in Crown Heights. Even in the absence of threats, and we must remain vigilant, taking precautionary measures to ensure the safety of our community members.
Three Crown Heights activists released a community alert regarding the Day of Rage called for by Hamas terrorists and urge residents to remain vigilant and recommending safety measures for the local shuls.
The letter, signed by Rabbi Mendy Hershkop of Crown Heights Shomrim, Rabbi Lazer Avtzon of Association of Crown Heights Shuls, and Rabbi Yaacov Behrman of Jewish Future Alliance, reads as follows:
Dear members of Anash,
We would like to update the community on recent events.
As you may be aware, there was an explosion last night in the parking lot of a Gazan hospital. Israeli and American intelligence indicate that it resulted from a misfired rocket launched by Palestinian terrorists. Following the incident, there were worldwide demonstrations against Israel and America, some of which turned violent, with certain groups calling for a day of rage.
In response to these developments, there will be an increased law enforcement presence in Crown Heights, visible around the neighborhood, schools, and shuls. It’s important to note that, according to the NYPD and FBI, there are no credible or specific threats at this time. However, both the NYPD and City Hall are treating the situation seriously, even in the absence of threats, and we must remain vigilant, taking precautionary measures to ensure the safety of our community members.
For an immediate emergency, call NYPD at 911 right away, followed by Shomrim. If you see or hear any suspicious activity, call 1-888-NYC-SAFE (1-888-692-7233) or call 911 and let Shomrim know as well at 718 774 3333.
Concerns have arisen regarding recent demonstrations, including some in New York where anti-Semitic and hateful rhetoric was chanted, glorifying the massacre and supporting violence. While we value freedom of speech in our democracy, law enforcement’s ability to intervene is limited, primarily when there isn’t actual violence or a direct threat. We raised this issue at the city-wide meeting with law enforcement yesterday.
Regarding social media posts by elected officials, it’s important to be aware that our local elected officials representing the vast majority of Crown Heights, have unequivocally condemned the horrible massacre by Hamas, and we maintain constant contact with them. The same cannot be said for elected officials in areas surrounding Crown Heights, where, in some cases, there is a small Anash constituency. This underscores the importance of voting and how crucial it was for Anash to vote, preventing someone potentially dangerous from gaining power due to the large turnout in our community.
As always, increasing acts of Torah, Tefillah, and Tzedakah, and Ahavas Yisroel will certainly bring us and Am Yisroel protection.
Our prayers are with our brethren in Israel and worldwide.
Sincerely, Rabbi Mendy Hershkop – Crown Heights Shomrim, Rabbi Lazer Avtzon – Association of Crown Heights Shuls, Rabbi Yaacov Behrman – Jewish Future Alliance
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