Although there is no specific threat, federal, state and local law enforcement agencies are concerned that New Year’s celebrations in Times Square on Tuesday could become a target for people intent on large-scale protests or acts of violence. “We remain concerned” that there is, a copy of the report says. Interagency threat assessment.
The assessment, compiled and produced annually by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, reviews the types of threats and potential safety concerns associated with the annual ball drop in midtown Manhattan.
The New York City Police Department’s assessment (included in the DHS memo) states that New York City and the United States continue to face an “increasing and dynamic threat environment amidst ongoing geopolitical conflicts; “It may be contributing to the mobilization of various extremists and malicious actors.” Violence against large gatherings, symbolic locations, and high-profile events. ”
DHS said its concerns about people attempting “simple, unsophisticated attacks that are difficult to detect in advance” stem from the political climate in the Middle East.
“The conflict between Israel and Hamas has created a heightened threat environment. Therefore, in response to the ongoing conflict, intelligence agencies are promoting threats of violence against Jewish, Muslim, Christian, and Arab communities. “We continue to be concerned about lone offenders who commit crimes,” the agency said.
Mayor Eric Adams on Monday praised the city’s first responders and said Times Square will be safe for those who call it home in 2025 in a symbolic celebration.
“We want to make sure that each and every person who comes here and enjoys the ball drop is safe,” he said. “You’ll have police officers in uniform, and you’ll have police officers not in uniform. We’re going to make sure we’re promoting the blue uniform.”
NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch said Monday that while there was no specific threat to the celebrations, police were operating under a “heightened threat environment” and remained “vigilant.”
