U.S. Jewish Institutions Tighten High Holiday Security

As Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur approach, Jewish communities in Michigan and New York are preparing to observe the High Holy Days despite heightened fears following attacks and a rise in antisemitic incidents. Temple Israel in West Bloomfield, Michigan, is restoring its sanctuary after a March shooting, but congregants say the attack will not deter them from attending services, even as officials arrange alternate worship space. New York synagogues and Jewish institutions are coordinating with police, security teams and government agencies; Jews accounted for 181 of the city’s 325 reported hate crimes during the first half of 2026. Rabbis and community leaders say many Jews feel vulnerable amid threats from both the political right and anti-Zionist voices on the left, while also facing internal divisions over Israel and Gaza. Jewish security officials are responding with training and preparedness efforts, while congregations emphasize solidarity, resilience and the importance of creating safe spaces for worship and reflection.