FBI warns of possible violence in U.S. ahead of Oct. 7 anniversary
FILE-Counter-protesters hold an Israeli flag across the street from the main pro-Palestinian protest before a march through Midtown Manhattan during a protest calling for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. (Photo by Michael Nigro/Pacific Press/Lig
The FBI and Department of Homeland Security officials are issuing a warning about potential violence in the U.S. ahead of the one-year anniversary of Hamas attacking Israel on Oct. 7, 2023.
In a memo Friday, the FBI says attacks that started the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, and "further significant escalations in the conflict, may be a motivating factor for violent extremists and hate crime perpetrators to engage in violence or threaten public safety."
FBI officials added in the memo that in the past year the agency has seen incidents of violence and hate crimes in the U.S. related to the Israel-Hamas conflict.
RELATED: US charges Hamas leader, militants over Oct. 7 Israel attack
The agency says Jewish, Muslim, or Arab venues like synagogues, mosques/Islamic centers, and community centers — and large public gatherings, such as memorials, vigils, are what the FBI deems appealing targets for violent attacks or hosts threats from extremists.
According to the FBI, online messages related to foreign terrorist organizations and other violent extremists emphasizing the Oct. 7 anniversary of the Hamas attacks might motivate these groups to commit violent acts.
Additionally, the FBI is warning the public to be aware of their surroundings, report suspicious activity and to contact 911 if there is an emergency, including in life-threatening situations.
What happened in the Hamas attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023?
Hamas launched a surprise attack into Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing 1,200 Israelis, taking 250 people hostage, and setting off a war with Israel that has shattered much of the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip.
RELATED: Israel knew about Hamas attack over a year in advance, New York Times report says
Citing the Gaza Health Ministry, the Associated Press reported over 41,000 Palestinians have been killed since then in Gaza, which does not differentiate between fighters and civilians. The agency noted that more than half were women and children.