Please Be Aware
While there is no known specific threat directed at the Pittsburgh Jewish community, the conflict between Iran and Israel has risen to a point that the potential for Iranian-directed attacks in the U.S. must be considered and security measures reviewed. Open-source reporting confirms that Iran’s Supreme Leader has rejected the U.S. demand for surrender and further warns of “serious irreparable harm” if the U.S. enters the conflict with Israel. We are in close communication with Intelligence Community partners, local, state and federal law enforcement, as well as the Jewish communal security network. This is a rapidly evolving environment and we will continue to provide updates on the threat environment, as needed.
We have received multiple reports of people yelling antisemitic threats at pedestrians in the Squirrel Hill area over the past two weeks. It is critical that any witnesses to these incidents report this via 911. While we have excellent camera coverage at many locations that have captured these vehicles, the police cannot investigate any matter without a complaint being filed via 911.
See below article on an incident that has been occurring repeatedly to a Jewish community member. The importance of reporting incidents and having good home video coverage is paramount as is seen in this case. If not for their swift actions and cameras, this actor likely would not have been identified and caught. We urge all community members to remain alert and report any suspicious activity via the Incident Report Form.
So far in 2025, we have logged 176 incidents in our Virtual Command Center. This compares to 158 for 2024. We continue to collaborate closely with law enforcement to monitor potential threat activity. Please continue to report any suspicious incidents via the Incident Report Form.
Security Matters in the News This Week
- Mexican War Street resident targeted with antisemitism — again (jewishchronicle.timesofisrael.com)
- Man claiming to be messiah vandalizes Milwaukee synagogue (JPost.com)
- When It Comes to Security, Local Jewish Communities Just Need to Stay Vigilant (jewishexponent.com)
- Arrest made in mass shooting threat targeting San Antonio Jews (expressnews.com)
BluePoint Status
BluePoint installation is now complete at J&R Camp and Emma Kaufman Camp. Cabling is being pulled at Yeshiva Boys. Charles Morris installation is scheduled to begin mid-June. BluePoint is now live in 31 of the 33 locations. Police boxes have been installed at 18 of our organizations, with 10 more locations to follow.
Security Resources and/or Training
Dave Wright Defensive Tactics Training for Seniors
Pittsburgh, PA 15243 United States + Google Map
Stay Safe, Stay Strong! Join us for a dynamic and confidence-building workshop designed specifically for older adults who want to take charge of their personal safety. In this hands-on session, trained instructors will guide participants through simple yet effective self-defense techniques tailored to different mobility levels. You’ll learn how to: Increase awareness and recognize potentially dangerous situations Use verbal and physical strategies to defuse and defend Rely on your strengths—...
Request Training for Your Organization →
If you need Go Bags, Emergency Safety Procedures Flip Charts or medical supplies contact Erin Fagan at efagan@jfedpgh.org or 412-992-5252.
