SAN DIEGO — Synagogues across the state are on heightened alert after nearly 100 centers of worship were sent false bomb threats.
Six San Diego area synagogues are among those targeted. The threats were emailed Tuesday, disrupting operations at many of the centers. Some from the local Jewish community tells CBS 8 they stand more united thane ever against hate and is working to combat antisemitism in response to the latest threats.
“As the Jewish community sadly, we're getting used to this, right, and it's our new normal," said Heidi Gantwerk, President and Chief Executive Officer of Jewish Federation of San Diego County.
A total of 91 synagogues across California were sent false bomb threats.
Gantwerk says the Jewish community is no stranger to hate and says Jewish institutions have seen a sharp increase in anti-Semitic threats in recent weeks.
“There's been an incredible uptick since October 7. Antisemitism never actually went away completely but the intensity and the speed of the increase since October 7 has been shocking. Little bit breathtaking," said Gantwerk.
Between December 13 and New Year’s Day, more than 700 anti-Semitic incidents were reported nationwide.
Gantwerk says the federation is actively working to combat the hate.
"At federation, we’re providing training so that people feel safe and feel that they are empowered to know what to do in an emergency. We're providing financial supports and security planning. We have a community security director," she added.
Gantwerk says no amount of hate can stop the Jewish community from thriving
“We are seeing incredibly robust participation, people who are showing up for programs at our synagogues, at our schools. As a community we’re showing up, so I’m really proud of our community," she said.
The FBI is investigating the false threats. No suspects have been identified as of now.
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