As we mourn the murders by Hamas in Israel and pray for the safe return of hostages, we share the anxiety caused by having loved ones in Israel and are concerned with our safety at home. Our primary concern continues to be the safety of our children, members, and staff.
I want to reassure you that we continue to work closely with our partner organizations, including, but not limited to the Jewish Federation, FBI, Manalapan Police, and the Secure Community Network. For those that are unfamiliar with the Secure Community Network, it was created to ensure the safety, security and resiliency of the Jewish community in North America. Through its operations center and Duty Desk, SCN provides timely, credible threat and incident information to both law enforcement and community partners, serves as the community’s formal liaison with federal law enforcement and coordinates closely with state and local law enforcement partners.
We participated in a meeting today that, included FBI Director Wray and the Secure Community Network, to bring Jewish organizations up to date on the threat level for Jewish people and institutions in the United States, and specifically the latest information on the “Day of Rage” information circulating on social media. Former Hamas leader Khaled Meshaal called for Muslims and supporters to gather around the world and protest on Friday.
There is currently no known threat in the United States related to this declaration. The FBI emphasized that it was used to create panic through social media. The FBI and Secure Community’s intelligence indicates that it was intended to encourage protests (and counter-protests). We were encouraged to not use social media as a reliable information resource.
Regardless, all Jewish synagogues, schools, and other organizations are in a heightened level of alert. The FBI’s concern in that the rallies and propaganda on social media will provide an excuse or encourage other hate groups, that are active in the United States, to commit violence. Again, there is no specific threat against any specific Jewish organization at this time.
Jewish Organizations were encouraged to use this situation to review how current safety protocols. As recommended, we continually review the security practices we have in place to make sure that we are responsive to the current situation. While I can’t share all of our security practices, you may notice some changes, including:
- The level of armed security at the temple is constantly reviewed so that we can be responsive to the current threat level. In addition, the Manalapan Police Department will have an increased presence at Shaari Emeth.
- There will be some changes outside of the building, including the removal of trash receptacles and other items that can be thrown through doors and windows, and vehicle traffic will not be allowed on the brick walkway for any reason. A temporary barrier has been put in place until permanent bollards are installed.
- You may see less information about Temple events on social media. Please pay attention to emails and our website for this information.
In addition to the concern caused by the “Day of Rage” rumors on social media, we were encouraged to give attention to current cyber security concerns. There has been an increased level of swatting (where people create panic by making 911 calls from a fake phone number, to cause panic, and phishing that tricks individuals into sharing personal information. Please be careful: Do not open emails that don’t seem Kosher; and do not open attachments on emails when you are not expecting them or are from unknown sources. More information can be found here.
Most importantly, if you see something, say something. If something doesn't seem right to you, please tell our security guard or any staff member. Our primary concern is keeping Temple Shaari Emeth a safe and secure place to learn, pray, sing, and do good things. Please contact me with any questions or specific concerns.
L'shalom,
Stuart Brown, Executive Director
