Congress Bolsters Security as Safety Concerns Rise Amid Israel-Hamas Conflict

The U.S. Capitol building in Washington on Oct. 3, 2023. Madalina Vasiliu/The Epoch Times

Security across U.S. Capitol grounds will be increased over the coming days due to growing concerns amid the Israel-Hamas conflict, according to officials.

William McFarland, who serves as the current sergeant-at-arms of the U.S. House of Representatives, informed lawmakers in an Oct. 12 memo that his office is working closely with law enforcement partners to monitor the intelligence regarding the conflict overseas.

“In response, there will be an increased security presence and activity on Capitol grounds over the next few days,” he wrote, adding that current intelligence indicates “no direct threats to the U.S. homeland or the Congressional Community.”

The memo went on to cite the global “Day of Rage” on Friday, Oct. 13, which was reportedly called for by former Hamas chief Khaled Meshaal.

“We are actively monitoring information circulating on social media and other platforms about a ‘Global Day of Rage,’” Mr. McFarland wrote. “In collaboration with the U.S. Capitol Police (USCP), and our federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, we are committed to keeping you informed of any developments.

“During this time of enhanced vigilance, there will be seen and unseen security enhancements to include restrictions to the Capitol Plaza. You may also notice additional security measures from the USCP and other law enforcement agencies,” the letter continues, adding that the office of the sergeant-at-arms “encourages all members and staff to participate in the security programs offered by our office.”

According to Mr. McFarland, there will be increased Capitol police presence at airports and escorts for members of Congress as per their request, beginning this week.

Additionally, the sergeant-at-arms may help with additional law enforcement coordination for lawmakers attending various public events.

Law enforcement agencies across cities like New York and Washington, as well as federal agencies, are also bolstering security, NBC News reported.

Members of Congress are led in prayer by Margaret Grun Kibben, the chaplain of the U.S. House of Representatives, during a vigil for Israel on the steps of the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington, on Oct. 12, 2023. Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

Lawmakers Hold Vigil for Israeli Victims

The bolstered security around the Capitol came on the same day a bipartisan group of more than 150 House lawmakers held a candlelight vigil to commemorate the lives of those killed by Hamas in Israel, which launched a surprise attack on the south of the country on Oct. 7.

An estimated 1,300 Israelis have died since Hamas launched its attack, according to the Israel Defense Forces, and more than 3,000 have been injured.

During the vigil, which was organized by Reps. Josh Gottheimer (D-N.J.) and Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.) and led by the House chaplain, the Rev. Margaret Grun Kibben, lawmakers from both sides of the aisle shared their ongoing support for Israel and its citizens.

Lawmakers also condemned Hamas and its “devastating civilian slaughter of women, children, and families,” after reports emerged that the terrorist organization had beheaded infants during its massacres across Israel’s southern kibbutz communities.

Meanwhile, the Hamas-backed health ministry in Gaza reports that 1,537 Palestinians have been killed, including 500 children and 2,760 women, following Israel’s massive air campaign.