By: Richard L. Smith
In light of the ongoing conflicts in Israel and the concerns for safety among NJ's Jewish community during the High Holidays, Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin has issued a statement outlining the precautionary measures being taken in New Jersey.
"As we worry about loved ones abroad, we know that members of our Jewish community throughout the country, and here in New Jersey, are worried for their safety as they continue to celebrate the High Holidays," said Attorney General Platkin.
Israel's Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, issued a declaration of being "at war" on Saturday in response to a significant escalation of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestinian militants in Gaza.
The escalation included the firing of a deadly barrage of rockets from Gaza into Israel and the infiltration of armed terror groups into Israeli territory by various means, including land, sea, and air, even utilizing paragliders.
During this intensification of hostilities, numerous explosions were reported in key Israeli cities such as Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, as well as in southern Israel.
Some of these explosions were likely the result of Israel's missile defense systems intercepting incoming rockets.
The threat of air raids prompted Israeli civilians to seek refuge in underground shelters.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) revealed that Hamas had taken "hostages and prisoners of war" during the conflict, though specific numbers were not provided.
On the Israeli side, the toll included at least 200 fatalities and 1,452 wounded, according to reports from Israel's emergency rescue service and health ministry.
The situation remains fluid and highly volatile as both sides grapple with the ongoing violence.
In New Jersey, to address these concerns and ensure the safety of residents, Platkin has been in close communication with the 21 County Prosecutors and law enforcement leaders across the state.
While there is no credible threat to safety at present, law enforcement agencies are increasing patrols in sensitive areas, particularly houses of worship for both the Jewish and Islamic faiths, as a precautionary measure.
The Attorney General emphasizes the importance of vigilance and encourages residents to report any suspicious activity to local authorities promptly.
Attorney General Platkin has also been engaging with leaders in the Jewish community to enhance security measures collaboratively.
In a recent statewide meeting, he brought together members of law enforcement and leaders from the Jewish faith, as well as representatives from the interfaith community, to ensure that sacred Jewish observances can occur without interruption amidst rising extremism and antisemitism across the nation.
"While it is always our hope that the High Holidays can be celebrated freely and openly without fear, the reality is that growing extremism and antisemitism across the country requires that we remain vigilant and focused on combating hate at what is a joyous time for the Jewish community," emphasized Platkin.
New Jersey, known for its diversity, stands firm against hate and intolerance.
Attorney General Platkin reaffirmed, "Today, more than ever, we recognize that where there is hate against one, there is hate against everyone. It is up to each of us to ensure that our state is not home to hate, intolerance, or violence."
The state of New Jersey remains committed to protecting the safety and well-being of all its residents and celebrating the strength that diversity brings to its communities.
