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
2025 Faith-Based Pre-Holiday Virtual Workshop
Holiday Safety for Faith Communities As the holiday season approaches, it is important to keep our churches, congregations, and communities safe. This free virtual workshop, designed specifically for faith-based leadership and their communities, will cover key safety and security tips for the fall and winter months. The training will include a DHS threat brief, legal issues in providing security within houses of worship, and practical strategies for seeking peace within our faith communities. S...
FY2025/2026 Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) Guidance
Please join the Secure Community Network (SCN) and subject matter experts for a workshop on the NSGP implementation process, including completing the Environmental & Historic Preservation Form (EHP), with a Q&A session at the conclusion of the webinar.
10-Minute Weather Safety Series: Winter Weather
This interactive session features a live Q&A where our experts will provide practical, actionable strategies for snowstorms and other severe winter conditions, alongside best practices for emergency planning. You will be familiarized with the essential steps and considerations to help yourself and your community remain prepared, safe, and resilient throughout the season. Presenter Murray Snow Director, Emergency Preparedness Secure Community Network
BeAware™: An Introduction to Situational Awareness
This training will teach you how to recognize suspicious or potentially dangerous behavior and threats and what to do. Designed for all community members, BeAware™ covers basic situational awareness and how to help protect yourself, your family, and your community. Speakers Chad Lotman Director, Training Secure Community Network John Piser Deputy Director, Planning & Preparedness Secure Community Network
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.
