Congress boosts security over Middle East tensions
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US Capitol Police officers at the US Capitol in Washington, DC, US, on Monday, Oct. 2, 2023. Photo: Eric Lee/Bloomberg via Getty Images.
The U.S. Capitol complex is enhancing security due to the escalating conflict between Israel and Hamas, the House and Senate's top security officials said in bulletins on Thursday.
Why it matters: The notice cites Hamas leadership's call for a global "Day of Rage" on Friday, which also has the Israeli government on high alert.
Driving the news: House Sergeant-at-Arms William McFarland said in the notice, a copy of which was obtained by Axios, that his office is "working closely with our 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," McFarland continued, also citing the "Day of Rage."
- Senate Sergeant-at-Arms Karen Gibson's office confirmed the Capitol Police "will begin enhanced operations on Friday" in an alert to staff.
- The Capitol Police also said in a statement they are “enhancing security throughout the Capitol Complex,” and that “some of what we are doing will be visible, but for safety reasons we cannot provide the public details about all of the resources that we are putting into protecting the Congress.”
Yes, but: Both offices said their intelligence has uncovered no specific or direct threats against the Capitol.
Details: The House sergeant-at-arms' office, Capitol Police and other law enforcement agencies are increasing security for lawmakers at D.C.-area airports, McFarland's notice said.
- Capitol Police officers will be stationed at at the airports and escorts for members will be available on request.
- Both offices also said certain areas of the Capitol will be restricted to lawmakers, staff and official business visitors.
What they're saying: At least one member of Congress is on edge about Friday. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.), in a post on X, called for the House to adjourn on Thursday due to "heightened security around the Capitol, and a dozen protests planned in DC[.]"
- "If we are not going to vote today for a Speaker, why don't we just go home and regroup next week?" she said. "I'll buy ammo while I'm home."
More from Axios:
- Scoop: Israel tells UN to evacuate the northern Gaza Strip within 24 hours
- Israel security chiefs had intel on Hamas activity but didn't put border on high alert
- Biden says U.S. "made it clear" to Iran it should not intervene in Hamas-Israel war
Editor's note: This article has been updated with details of the Senate's security plans and a statement from Capitol Police.
