As Governor Phil Murphy and First Lady Tammy Murphy depart for a business-related trip to Japan, New Jersey law enforcement agencies are stepping up security measures across the state. The heightened alert comes in the wake of a warning issued yesterday by the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office, citing calls for a “global day of Jihad” by a former leader of the terrorist organization Hamas.
The governor posted a photo of himself and his wife Tammy on Twitter. The couple was in first-class seating arrangements on their flight to Japan.
“@FirstLadyNJ & I are excited to spend the next nine days in East Asia for our economic mission trip with @ChooseNJ, where we will meet with leaders & innovators, showcasing NJ as the best place in the country for business investment,” Murphy tweeted.
Several New Jersey residents have been killed in Israel and others remain missing, feared taken captive by Hamas.
“Given the circumstances, we have mobilized additional resources and police presence, particularly in areas with large Jewish communities,” stated the Attorney General’s Office. New Jersey is home to a sizable Jewish population, with several cities hosting significant centers of Orthodox Jewish residents.
While the governor is abroad, Lieutenant Governor Tahesha Way will assume the role of acting governor. Lt. Governor Way is working closely with law enforcement agencies to monitor the situation and ensure the safety of New Jersey residents. “The well-being of our community is our utmost priority. We will act swiftly and decisively to mitigate any threat,” she said.
In municipalities with a high concentration of Jewish residents, police have already been placed on heightened alert. Law enforcement agencies are coordinating with community leaders to increase patrols and implement additional security measures.
Though Governor Murphy is away on official business to discuss trade and other matters with Japanese officials, he has been briefed on the situation and is in constant communication with the Lieutenant Governor and state security advisors. Residents are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to local authorities.