BOISE, Idaho — Some U.S. cities are increasing security after a Hamas leader called for protests amid the escalating war between Israel and the terrorist group. This caused a security alert through Jewish communities around the world and here in Boise.
"So, the recent tragedy in Israel has kind of elevated my concern for safety and security,” said Roy Ledesma, the Security Manager for Congregation Ahavath Beth Israel. "We still need to remain vigilant, while we live our daily lives."
Even though the FBI and security experts say there are no credible threats.
"It’s a trickledown effect, we can't be complacent and ignore it,” Ledesma said. “So, with these types of reports, we have to respond."
Ledesma said he went to a meeting with FBI experts and learned best practice security guidance during the ongoing terrorist attacks in Israel.
After the meeting, Ledesma sent an email to the congregation about the threat landscape and the domestic implications.
He said he couldn't talk about what specific security measures are being taken, but the synagogue is going to continue to working with local law enforcement and other security experts to keep the congregation safe.
"We don't want to be complacent, but we also want to make sure that the congregants are safe and secure,” Ledesma said. “But not to forget about what's happening in Israel, to all of the people there."
Many of the members have ties in Israel and on Wednesday Oct. 11, Ahavath Beth Israel held a vigil to mourn the loss of so many innocent people.
"I tell people our congregations is a family and the family needed to be together, they needed to talk to each other, they needed to feel the comfort of the community,” Roy said. “We did that and we're going to continue to do that."
Ledesma said even though there is no threat now he knows that things could change, and they are prepared.
"We need to continue living our lives, we need to continue to love each other and have each other's back,” Roy said. “We also need to be vigilant and keep our heads on a swivel."
Ledesma said services will not be cancelled and security experts say the congregation should continue with their daily activities but to make sure to be vigilant and to report any suspicious activity to the Boise Police Department.
Watch more Local News:
See the latest news from around the Treasure Valley and the Gem State in our YouTube playlist:
HERE ARE MORE WAYS TO GET NEWS FROM KTVB:
Download the KTVB News Mobile App
Apple iOS: Click here to download
Google Play: Click here to download
Watch news reports for FREE on YouTube: KTVB YouTube channel
Stream Live for FREE on ROKU: Add the channel from the ROKU store or by searching 'KTVB'.
Stream Live for FREE on FIRE TV: Search ‘KTVB’ and click ‘Get’ to download.