The New York City Police Department is on high alert ahead of the annual Israel Day Parade, which is happening nearly eight months after Hamas’ attacks on southern Israel prompted the ongoing war in Gaza. The theme for this year’s parade is “Bring the Hostages Home,” reflecting the more than 120 hostages still held captive since the Oct. 7 attacks. Mayor Eric Adams and NYPD officials held a press conference to discuss security preparations, given the potential threat from extremists and malicious actors looking to strike Sunday’s event.
Since Oct. 7, almost 2,800 protests have taken place in New York City, with nearly 1,300 related to the war in the Middle East. Police Commissioner Edward Caban announced an increased police presence in the surrounding area of the parade route, including screening checkpoints, bike teams, aviation, K-9 units, and specialized units. The NYPD’s Counterterrorism and Intelligence Bureau personnel will also be deployed, with no specific or credible threats reported at this time.
The Israel Day Parade, known as the “Israel Day on Fifth,” has been a tradition for almost six decades, drawing more than 40,000 participants, including Israeli dignitaries, celebrities, and families of the hostages. Additional security measures include wanding of spectators by school safety agents and NYPD counterterrorism units, as well as the requirement of proper credentials provided by the Jewish Community Relations Council to access the parade route. NYPD Chief of Department Jeffrey Maddrey emphasized that these security measures are similar to those implemented in past events like New Year’s Eve and 4th of July celebrations.
The parade route has been fortified with additional fencing for increased security, extending from 56th Street to 74th Street. Spectators can enter the parade route through five access points on Madison Avenue, where they will be checked by school safety agents and NYPD counterterrorism units. The NYPD aviation unit will have drones deployed, and the K-9 unit and mounted unit will be working in and around Central Park on Sunday. While the event takes place, cricket matches on Long Island will also begin, with ISIS-related terror threats circulating last week, raising security concerns.
Mayor Adams highlighted that outside agitators often disrupt large gatherings and protests, embedding themselves in events like the Israel Day Parade. The NYPD is prepared to respond to any inappropriate actions that go beyond peaceful protesting or voicing concerns. Deputy Commissioner of Operations Kaz Daughtry mentioned the use of ARGUS cameras along the parade route and strategic deployment of drones to monitor for potential disruptions. The overall goal is to ensure the safety of participants, spectators, and the community during the event.
