An alarming email containing a bomb threat was sent to over two dozen synagogues and Jewish institutions in New York City, as well as to temples in upstate New York and on Long Island. The message read, Hello, if you see this email, please be aware that a bomb has been placed inside your building.
The message stated that there was no threat, but rather a bomb had been placed in the building. The group behind this ominous communication identifies itself as ‘Terrorizers111’.”
The threat extended to 14 synagogues and Jewish centers in Manhattan, two in Brooklyn, and five in Queens. Additionally, two temples upstate and one on Long Island were also targeted. The New York Landmarks Conservancy received a comparable threat.
The threats coincide with a surge in antisemitism in the five boroughs and other locations. In response to the ongoing Hamas-Israel conflict, hundreds of pro-Palestinian protesters have established anti-Israeli encampments on college campuses throughout the United States.
New York authorities have declared the threats to be baseless, and investigators are currently working to identify the sender.
During a press conference, US Senator Chuck Schumer and Representative Jerry Nadler revealed that they had engaged in discussions with the FBI regarding the ongoing investigation.
Schumer emphasized the challenges in identifying the perpetrators due to their ability to conceal the origins of their emails and phone calls. However, he expressed confidence in the FBI’s track record of successfully tracing and apprehending individuals involved in such activities.
Upon learning about the threats, one’s heart sinks, and the initial hope is that it’s merely a hoax. Fortunately, in this instance, that hope was realized.
However, the lingering fear and trauma persist when synagogues and other places of worship require evacuation. Congregants who experience such events continue to wonder if safety can be assured in the future.
BREAKING: New York City synagogues targeted with bomb threats amid rising antisemitism.
Nearly two dozen Jewish sites in New York City received bomb threats via email from a group identifying itself as "Terrorizers111."
The chilling message warned, "I have set a bomb in your… pic.twitter.com/KhLphMjqyE
— Hank (@HANKonX) May 5, 2024
Governor Kathy Hochul posted on X, stating that they are closely monitoring several bomb threats directed at synagogues in New York.
Although these threats have been deemed non-credible, the governor emphasized a zero-tolerance policy toward those who spread fear and antisemitism. The responsible individuals must face consequences for their reprehensible behavior.
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