Three synagogues in New York City were targeted with bomb threats within a two-hour period on Saturday, according to the New York City Police Department. The threats occurred between 3:15 p.m. and 5:13 p.m. on the same day.
The first threat was directed at Congregation Rodeph Sholom at 7 West 83rd Street around 3:15 p.m. An email from an unknown sender threatened the presence of explosives, prompting the evacuation of the building. Fortunately, no explosives were found inside the synagogue.
Shortly after, at approximately 4:30 p.m., Congregation Beit Simchat Torah on West 30th Street received a similar threatening email. The building was empty at the time, and upon inspection, no explosives were discovered.
The third threat was reported just after 5:10 p.m. when the Brooklyn Heights Synagogue on Remsen Street received an email with threats of explosives. Three individuals were evacuated as a precaution, and no explosives were found inside the synagogue.
Law enforcement officials are currently investigating all three bomb threats. New York Governor Kathy Hochul stated that while the threats have been deemed not credible, such actions promoting fear and antisemitism will not be tolerated, and those responsible will be held accountable.
Nathan Diament, the executive director of public policy for the orthodox union, confirmed that the threats were false and law enforcement was actively monitoring the situation. Despite the stress caused by the threats and increased antisemitism, Diament emphasized that the Orthodox Jewish community remains resolute in their commitment to attending synagogue daily, refusing to be deterred by such acts of intimidation.
