FBI on alert for potential threats in Connecticut amid Middle East tensions

The FBI says it is on alert for potential threats in Connecticut communities as Monday's Passover holiday approaches and tensions rise overseas.

U.S. officials confirmed an Israeli strike on Iran occurred early Friday morning. Officials say the target was not nuclear.

The FBI has warned that a holiday gathering could present a target for lone actors.

Rabbi Daniel Cohen of Congregation Agudath Sholom in Stamford tells News 12 the synagogue has had additional security since the Israel-Hamas War began on Oct. 7.

"We're doing what we can, we certainly believe that God is sovereign, and it's important to not focus on that part but really to focus on what we do together here," says Cohen.

Several antisemitic incidents have taken place in the city, including swastikas being drawn outside of schools and posters of kidnapped Israelis being torn down.

The Anti-Defamation League says antisemitic incidents rose 170% in Connecticut last year. Nearly two-thirds of those incidents occurred after the Israel-Hamas war started.

The ADL also says that 49% of Connecticut towns reported at least one antisemitic act.

Westport police say social media plays a big role.

"It's not just a post, and then it's done. It raises fears, it raises anxiety. People in the Jewish community have lived this life for their entire lives and so they feel it. It means something to them," says Lt. Eric Woods.