Washington, March 19: A prominent U.S. lawmaker has called for increased funding to enhance the security of religious institutions. This request comes in light of escalating tensions in the Middle East and recent attacks that have heightened fears among religious communities across the nation.
Democratic Congressman Josh Gottheimer convened a meeting on Tuesday in New Jersey with Homeland Security officials and religious leaders. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the growing threats faced by places of worship.
Attendees included officials from the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness (NJOHSP), such as Director Thomas Hawk and Preparedness Director Charles Ambio. Leaders from Jewish, Christian, Hindu, and other religious communities were also present.
Participants reviewed the current threat landscape and discussed coordination between law enforcement agencies and religious institutions, focusing particularly on improving preparedness and response.
Gottheimer stated, “At a time when tensions are rising in the Middle East and conflicts involving Iran continue, it is more crucial than ever that we remain vigilant against threats, especially for our religious communities.”
The discussion also highlighted how the conflict in the Middle East is impacting domestic security concerns and increasing pressure to strengthen security measures at local institutions.
Gottheimer referred to recent incidents as a warning. He noted, “In recent weeks, there was an attack on a synagogue in Michigan, and here in Teaneck, a 19-year-old was shot with a pellet gun outside a synagogue. This serves as a troubling reminder that anti-Semitism and hatred still exist.”
He emphasized that the threat extends to all religious groups. “No one should feel unsafe entering a synagogue, church, mosque, or temple anywhere in New Jersey or across America.”
A key topic of the meeting was the federal Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP), which provides funding for security upgrades such as surveillance systems, access control, and trained personnel.
Gottheimer urged immediate action to expand this program, stating that he is working to increase NSGP funding to $1 billion by fiscal year 2027.
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