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New York City is preparing for heightened security next week as both the Jewish high holidays and the United Nations General Assembly approach. The NYPD announced an increased police presence at critical locations throughout the city starting Monday (September 22nd) through Thursday (September 25th) during Rosh Hashanah. This move comes as world leaders begin arriving for the UN General Assembly, which commenced on September 9th and will run until September 28th.
NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch stated that threats typically rise during this period due to the convergence of significant events, including the anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. According to Algemeiner, Tisch emphasized the department's commitment to monitoring threats against the city's critical infrastructure, such as bridges and tunnels connecting Queens and Manhattan.
The NYPD, in coordination with federal partners, is taking extra precautions, deploying heavily armed units to synagogues and other sensitive sites. The department will also set a record for the number of drones deployed, enhancing surveillance capabilities.
The New York Post reported that the NYPD is investigating vague bomb threats targeting infrastructure between Queens and Manhattan. Although these threats are unsubstantiated, law enforcement is treating them seriously, especially given the recent security incidents in the city.
The increased security measures also follow a recent Israeli strike targeting Hamas leaders in Qatar, which has heightened tensions globally. According to ABC7NY, the NYPD is deploying additional resources to religious, cultural, and diplomatic sites across the city as a precautionary measure.
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