Israeli Consulate in New York Evacuated Over Nearby Building Collapse Risk

The Israeli consulate staff in New York City were evacuated on Tuesday morning due to concerns over the potential collapse of a nearby high-rise building under construction. The building, a 1,600-unit residential tower replacing an old office structure at the corner of Second Avenue and 42nd Street in Manhattan, showed signs of structural failure when inspectors noticed bent beams on its 21st floor.

Following the discovery, New York City police and firefighters ordered an immediate evacuation of the consulate building, adjacent structures, and a nearby school with approximately 400 students. Vehicle traffic was halted on surrounding streets, and pedestrians were warned to avoid the area amid fears the building could collapse. The upper floors of the tower also exhibited further bending signs later in the day.

New York City Mayor Zoran Mamdani visited the site to oversee the evacuation efforts. Authorities are currently working to stabilize the building by adding support beams and columns to prevent collapse. Meanwhile, the city filed a complaint against the construction company, alleging unauthorized excavation work at the building’s foundation that violated its construction permit.

Israeli Consul General in New York, Ofir Akunis, confirmed that all consulate employees were safely evacuated. The situation remains under close monitoring as emergency crews continue their stabilization work.