The Israel-Hamas war has prompted security concerns for the Jewish community in the United States.
Members of the North Texas Jewish community gathered at an undisclosed synagogue in Dallas for an interfaith event to discuss enhanced security measures as the conflict continues to intensify, per CBS Texas.
Over 1,000 members of the community signed up to attend the October 10 event. Bill Humphrey, director of community security for the Jewish Federation of Greater Dallas, said local residents have family ties to those who have perished and those still missing in Israel. Humphrey added that the consequences of the war have been “devastating.”
Humphrey confirmed that the community is seeking increased security measures, and Dallas police and other agencies have elevated their security protocols.
“The real message is constant security presence. We just never let up. You’ll see Dallas police, you’ll see a presence, yes … a feeling of comfort, but many more layers,” said Humphrey, according to CBS Texas.
The FBI has said it is not currently aware of a potential threat to the U.S. related to the Israel-Hamas events. Still, the agency said it is working with entities at all levels of government and would remain vigilant.
“While the FBI does not have specific and credible intelligence indicating a threat to the United States stemming from the Hamas attacks in Israel, we are closely monitoring unfolding events and will share relevant information with our state, local, federal and international law enforcement, intelligence and homeland security partners to ensure they are prepared for any impacts to public safety,” read a National Press Office statement from the agency.
“We will not hesitate to adjust our security posture, as appropriate, to protect the American people.”
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott gathered with the Jewish community in the Austin area on October 9 to promote solidarity and show support for Israel, as previously reported by The Dallas Express.
Abbott issued more than $4 million in emergency grant funding to Jewish organizations for increased security, ordering law enforcement to redouble its counter-terrorism efforts, as previously reported by The Dallas Express.
