Manhattan Tower Evacuated Over Structural Collapse Fears, Israeli Consulate Among Buildings Cleared

A 38-story tower in central Manhattan was evacuated on Tuesday morning due to fears of structural collapse after two massive steel support columns visibly bent on the 21st and 22nd floors. The building, formerly Pfizer's corporate headquarters and currently undergoing conversion into residential units, showed alarming damage including sagging floors creating dangerous slopes on upper levels.

The New York Fire Department received the initial report around 8:00 a.m. following falling bricks from the tower. Emergency crews quickly responded, cordoning off streets and ordering a broad evacuation of the tower and nearby skyscrapers. No injuries have been reported so far.

Among the evacuated buildings was the Israeli consulate in New York, which also houses Israel's UN mission, the Defense Ministry's procurement delegation, and other government offices. Israeli Consul General Ophir Akunis confirmed all staff were safely evacuated and said plans are underway to find alternative locations to maintain consular services and resume normal operations promptly.

New York Mayor Zoran Mamdani emphasized that public safety remains the top priority as authorities continue assessing the situation. Social media footage showed numerous fire trucks and emergency personnel at the scene, with visible structural damage inside the tower. The incident has caused significant disruption in the heart of Manhattan as investigations and safety checks proceed.