US Police Boost Security at Jewish Sites After DC Embassy Staff Murders

In response to the fatal shooting of two Israeli embassy staff members at the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, police departments across multiple U.S. regions have increased security measures at Jewish institutions and other sensitive sites. The NYPD deployed its Critical Response Command, a heavily armed unit specialized in active shooter scenarios, to Jewish houses of worship and cultural locations in New York City as a precaution, despite no known direct threats. Similarly, police in Durham Region, Montgomery County, and Prince George's County have heightened patrols around synagogues and public gatherings to reassure communities and prevent hate crimes. Officials emphasized that there is currently no specific intelligence indicating further threats but stressed the importance of vigilance given the broader context of rising antisemitic acts and ongoing tensions related to the conflict in Gaza. Leaders including Prime Minister Mark Carney, Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand, and New York City Mayor Eric Adams condemned the attack and reiterated the commitment to combating antisemitism and ensuring public safety. These coordinated security enhancements reflect a unified effort to protect Jewish communities amid increased risks following the targeted attack.