Dov Hikind, founder of Americans Against Antisemitism and a former New York state assemblyman representing heavily Orthodox neighborhoods in Brooklyn, said the New York Police Department deserves strong support but could benefit from additional manpower during the large public event.

Hikind argued that security concerns extend beyond the official parade route itself, warning that Jews carrying Israeli flags or wearing visibly pro-Israel clothing could become targets in surrounding areas of Manhattan.

“We need to make sure bad things don’t happen,” Hikind said. “We want to make sure there is safety for the Jewish community. I’m calling on Governor Hochul to bring in the National Guard to help the New York City Police Department.”

Governor Hochul has previously authorized National Guard deployments at major transit centers throughout New York City as part of crime-prevention and security efforts.

Despite Hikind’s concerns, organizers of the Israel Day Parade said they are confident in the NYPD’s existing preparations and are not requesting National Guard assistance.

Jewish Community Relations Council of New York CEO Mark Treyger said parade organizers are working closely with law enforcement agencies ahead of the annual event.

“I have full faith and confidence in the greatest police department in the world, the NYPD, under the exceptional leadership of Commissioner Jessica Tisch, who has done a tremendous job ensuring the safety and success of major events and parades across New York City, including the Israel Day on Fifth parade in recent years,” Treyger told The Post.

Treyger added that extensive preparations are already underway.

“Commissioner Tisch, the NYPD, and all of our law enforcement partners have left no stone unturned in preparing for next Sunday’s parade.”

He also noted that the Community Security Initiative — the joint security partnership between JCRC-NY and the UJA-Federation of New York — is coordinating closely with law enforcement to safeguard participants.

“New Yorkers should know that extensive planning, coordination, and security infrastructure are in place to ensure a safe, successful, and joyful celebration next Sunday,” Treyger said. “We look forward to proudly celebrating our Jewish identity, our connection to Israel, and our appreciation for living in the best city in the world, New York City,”

Hikind, however, maintained that additional security measures are justified in light of recent anti-Israel demonstrations outside Jewish institutions, including protests near Park East Synagogue and Young Israel Senior Services in Midwood, Brooklyn.

He also pointed to the decision by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani — a vocal critic of Israel — to boycott the parade.

The Israel Day Parade is scheduled for Sunday, May 31, and will proceed along Fifth Avenue from 62nd Street to 74th Street in Manhattan.

Governor Hochul’s office confirmed that the New York State Police will maintain a presence at the event, though officials stopped short of committing to deploy National Guard troops.

“Keeping New Yorkers safe is Governor Hochul’s top priority — especially as communities gather for major celebrations. At the Governor’s direction, State Police maintain an increased presence at large events throughout the state, and we will be closely coordinating with the NYPD and law enforcement partners in New York City to ensure the safety of all involved,” a Hochul spokesperson said.

Her office added that National Guard members remain stationed at major transportation centers as well as key bridges and tunnels throughout New York City.

State authorities also said law enforcement agencies are actively monitoring social media activity and remain on heightened alert for any credible threats to public safety.

{Matzav.com}