There has been a mixed reaction to the President’s announcement regarding the building and movement of the U.S. Embassy in Israel from Tel-Aviv to Jerusalem.

As is expected, such pro-Israeli announcements and activities usually cause an uptick in Anti-Israeli and Anti-Jewish rhetoric and the real potential for hostile activities against both Israel and Jewish institutions and individuals worldwide.

While it may be too early to tell, despite the chatter and rhetoric surrounding the President’s statements yesterday. In the U.S. at present, there is no specific, credible intelligence regarding threats to the Homeland resulting from the

announcement that the United States recognizes Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.

We must remain vigilant, however, due to the fact that Homegrown violent extremists (HVEs) have long cited US foreign policy as being among their primary grievances, and although the proper authorities in the United States continue to assess that they are prepared to mobilize and when they are operationally ready, their use of readily available weapons makes it increasingly easy for them to conduct an attack with little or no warning.

As expected, there are reports of planned protests abroad, some of which could be violent, against US interests overseas.

Notifications from the State Department, DHS and other federal departments and agencies will continue to evaluate any potential threats emanating from foreign terrorist organizations and HVEs if any of these groups or individuals intend to advance plotting efforts in the near term they will provide further notification for relevant warnings or guidance as warranted.

In the meantime, state and local partners will remain vigilant and ensure any suspicious activity reporting is shared and responded to with the appropriate partners.

Remember: “If You See Something, Say Something™” is more than just a slogan. Call local law enforcement. 

• Post details on reporting suspicious activity and encourage employees, tenants, and visitors to report suspicious behavior to property management security or local law enforcement.
• Things to consider include unattended vehicles; repeat visitors or outsiders who have no apparent business in non-public area; abandoned parcels, suitcases, backpacks, and packages; and other unusual activity.
• Get involved with the Department’s “If You See Something, Say Something™” campaign.

Wishing everyone a joyous and safe holiday.

Ron