Police increase patrols at Long Island’s places of worship following Iranian airstrikes in Israel
Although local leaders say there is no imminent threat to the region, police patrols have been stepped up at houses of worship and in communities with large Jewish and Muslims populations out of an abundance of caution.
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Nassau and Suffolk police are increasing patrols at synagogues and mosques in the wake of Iran’s missile attack on Israel.
"Anytime there is an event like that, obviously, we go on high alert," said Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman.
Although local leaders say there is no imminent threat to the region, police patrols have been stepped up at houses of worship and in communities with large Jewish and Muslims populations out of an abundance of caution.
"We have a full complement of police patrols that are out. In addition to that, we have 'Operation Overwatch' where we'll have about 20 additional police cars out on the street, and they will do enhanced patrols," Blakeman added.
Nassau and Suffolk police say they are working with local, state and federal agencies to ensure public safety.
The Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau in Glen Gove has had police security since the Oct. 7 terror attack by Hamas inside Israel.
Local and state police are actively patrolling synagogues and mosques as well as cultural centers in various Suffolk County neighborhoods to discourage any possible acts of hate. Many at the Islamic Center of Melville said they feel safer knowing that police are on patrol, but they are remaining on high alert after Saturday's airstrikes.
IDF Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said Iran fired 170 drones, more than 30 cruise missiles and more than 120 ballistic missiles. Several ballistic missiles reached Israeli territory, causing minor damage to an air base.
The Iranian attack on Saturday, less than two weeks after a suspected Israeli strike in Syria that killed two Iranian generals in an Iranian consular building, marked the first time Iran has launched a direct military assault on Israel.
AP Wire Services contributed to this article.
