Following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran Saturday and Iran’s vow to strike back, authorities closer to home were vowing to uphold safety of the general public.
Governor Hochul, in a statement issued Saturday, declared: “Following the U.S. military operations in Iran overnight, we are taking precautionary steps to protect New Yorkers. State Police are increasing their presence at religious, diplomatic, and cultural sites statewide in coordination with federal, state, and local law enforcement partners. Additionally, in advance of the Jewish holiday of Purim, State Police remain alert and have already begun outreach to religious organizations to offer support.
“While there have been no specific, credible threats to New York identified, we continue to monitor online activity for any potential threats, and we encourage New Yorkers to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity.”
Buffalo Police issued a statement offering a similar promise: “Buffalo Police Department announces in light of recent military actions, Buffalo Police is taking preventive steps to ensure public safety in the City of Buffalo.
“Places of worship of all denominations should expect to see increased patrols and officers have been encouraged to stop in and say hello. Faith based and community leaders are encouraged to reach out to Buffalo Police with any questions or concerns.
“Buffalo Police has been in contact with federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to ensure communication lines are clear. The Threat Management Unit and SWAT team will be prepared to respond, if necessary.”
Elected officials also offered reactions to the military strikes, offering support or condemnation, generally along party lines.
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D NY): “I came to Congress in opposition to endless wars. Trump’s actions today risk exactly that again.
“Congress should return to session immediately to vote on a war powers resolution.
“The president lacks the constitutional authority – and in my opinion, the temperament and judgment – to act in such a reckless fashion.
“I pray for the safety and well-being of our brave service members and American families in the region.
“America voted for lower costs, not forever wars.”
Congressman Tim Kennedy (D NY): “Last night, Donald Trump launched pre-emptive military strikes against Iran without Congressional authorization or making the case to the American people.
“Iran is a dangerous, murderous regime. However, the Constitution is clear: Congress declares war. Trump chose escalation over diplomacy, putting American lives at risk in a volatile region.
“Our service members deserve better than to be sent to war without a plan, without Congressional authorization, and without the will of the American people.”
Congressman Nick Langworthy (R NY-23) offered a lengthier statement: “The Iranian regime is the world’s number one sponsor of terror and has the blood of thousands of Americans on its hands. Their ‘Death to America’ chants and desire to annihilate Israel are not slogans, they have been actively building the nuclear weapons and missiles capability to make it a reality, and over the last four decades have taken every opportunity to kill.
“President Trump has given them numerous chances to deescalate and has successfully built allied relationships with the rest of the Middle East region, who are supportive of the Epic Fury operation. The Gang of 8 was also briefed and has conveyed the grave importance of stopping Iran’s military capabilities. This mission is about protecting our homeland and finishing the job of blocking this murderous regime from obtaining a nuclear weapon. It’s very telling that while our strikes are isolated to military targets, Iran has begun the indiscriminate bombings of civilian locations.
“May God watch over our incredible U.S. Servicemembers who are tasked with this mission and those deployed across the region. This is a moment for us to stand united for lasting peace for America, the Iranian people, and all countries across the Middle East.
“It is also a time that we must be extra vigilant on our own soil and Democrats must stop blocking funding for the Department of Homeland Security so it can immediately reopen and be fully operational. Time is of the essence.”