US tightens security on New Year's Eve after FBI warning

According to USA Today , public safety agencies across the United States are increasing security ahead of New Year's Eve and even through New Year's Day following warnings from the FBI and other federal agencies.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul said security in Times Square in New York City, where crowds flock to watch the annual New Year's Eve ball drop, will be stepped up both before and after the 2023-2024 turn of the year. New York State Police will increase their presence, while state troopers, the New York National Guard and other agencies will patrol some areas.

The crystal ball drop event on New Year's Eve in Times Square (New York) attracts a large number of viewers.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams said the city had not received any credible threats but was acting "out of an abundance of caution."

"Protecting events — of all sizes — is something we do better than any other city in the country. However, to guard against any potential threats, you will see a large security presence on the ground and in the air throughout the festival to ensure New Yorkers can celebrate safely," Adams wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

In Las Vegas, Nevada, known as the "gambling capital", hundreds of thousands of people are expected to gather to welcome the new year. Las Vegas police said they are increasing security by mobilizing a bomb squad and hazardous-object disposal teams, as well as deploying low-flying helicopters.

ABC News reported that, according to an assessment by authorities, New Year's Eve in San Francisco, California "remains an attractive target for foreign terrorist organizations, domestic violent extremists..." as well as lone criminals.

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Commenting on the memo, the FBI's San Francisco office said it regularly coordinates with multiple agencies to issue warnings about potential threats, and "encourages the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious behavior to law enforcement immediately."

Boston, Massachusetts, city officials say law enforcement will be “in full force” during the city’s New Year’s Eve festivities, including First Night Boston, which is expected to draw more than 200,000 people to watch fireworks, ride the Ferris wheel, watch impromptu performances and participate in other activities.

Earlier in December, the FBI, the Department of Homeland Security, and the National Counterterrorism Center warned police agencies and the American public about potential safety threats at large gatherings on New Year's Eve, citing "ongoing tensions between Hamas and Israel" and an increase in hate crimes across the United States as the basis for the warning.

“Lone actors may seek to disrupt or escalate violence at large gatherings, high-profile events, or symbolic or religious sites throughout the winter. Such gatherings may become convenient targets for those inspired to commit acts of violence against Jewish, Christian, Muslim, and Arab communities,” the FBI said.

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