US Urges Global Boost in Security for Jewish Communities Ahead of High Holidays

The US State Department has instructed American diplomatic missions worldwide to urge host countries to significantly enhance security measures around synagogues, Jewish institutions, and holiday events ahead of the Jewish High Holidays (Tishrei). According to a directive sent to US representatives, governments are being called upon to deploy police, counterterrorism units, and even military forces at synagogues and locations hosting prayers and events as needed.

The directive extends beyond synagogue buildings to include Jewish residential areas and common routes used by worshippers, who are often identifiable by their attire and predictable schedules. Missions have also been asked to coordinate with local authorities to conduct security briefings and collaborate with Jewish institutions, security agencies, and businesses in preparation for the holidays.

A notable instruction requires establishing a system to deliver immediate threat alerts on Shabbat and holidays to observant Jews who do not use electronic devices during these times. This guidance follows a similar directive issued before Passover.

The heightened security alert comes amid alarming data on anti-Semitic hate crimes in the US. FBI statistics for 2025 reveal that Jews, who make up about 2% of the US population, were targeted in 63% of all reported religiously motivated hate crimes. The Anti-Defamation League’s analysis shows 1,528 anti-Semitic hate crime incidents in 2025, marking the third highest year on record after 2023 and 2024, which were the peak years since tracking began.