New York City increases security ahead of New Years Eve Times Square event

New York City is beefing up security ahead of the iconic Times Square New Year's Eve celebrations. The city has been gradually adding more patrols each year, but this time there are safety concerns as the Israel-Hamas conflict escalates. Pro-Israel and pro-Palestine protests have taken to the streets of New York, sometimes clashing with police. Since the Hamas terrorist attacks on October 7, New York City Mayor Eric Adams claims there have been nearly 500 protests throughout the city. During a pro-Palestine protest on Christmas day, the NYPD called in a level three mobilization – the second highest threat. The NYPD is concerned protestors will now try to disrupt the Times Square NYE celebrations and are taking precautions to ensure the safety of those attending.