Community Security Recommendations Following the Military Action in Iran

Jewish Federations of North America, the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), Secure Community Network (SCN), Community Security Service (CSS), and Community Security Initiative (CSI) of New York, released the following guidance in light of the military actions in Iran adding to the previously elevated threat environment. It is important that organizations foster a culture of shared responsibility and coordination around safety and security.

Absent specific or credible threats to a location or event or advice from law enforcement, we encourage the community to continue to gather and host events - but urge the highest level of attention to the security protocols at every Jewish institution and gathering place.  These include:  

Individuals and organizations should remain vigilant and ensure situational awareness, reporting all suspicious activity to appropriate security and law enforcement partners by maintaining a proactive posture versus reactive.  

Ensure facility and organizational security plans, protocols, and measures are reviewed and are being fully activated, including the review of registrants and attendees for events, and attention to the perimeter of facilities as well as to the internal spaces, and the provisions of safety and security protocols for entrances and exits 

Ensure awareness around the regular schedule and rhythm of gatherings, as well as special events, ensuring that all events are operating in coordination with law enforcement and the Jewish security initiative and/or professional in your community or region. 

Utilize armed on-duty or off-duty law enforcement, private security, and/or volunteer teams as additional layers of protection for events.

Reassess planned outdoor events that are often more difficult to secure and pose elevated safety concerns; consider moving them indoors or to a space that is more contained.  

Ensure proper cybersecurity measures, protocols, and systems are in place and up to date. Be aware of suspicious emails or attempts to gain access to data systems and report suspicious cyber activity immediately to the appropriate law enforcement authorities and the Jewish security initiative and/or professional in your community or region. 

Endorsed by: 

Anti-Defamation League  
Secure Community Network 
Jewish Federations of North America 
The Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations 
The Orthodox Union 
Union of Reform Judaism 
United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism 
Community Security Initiative of New York 
Community Security Service