Local Muslim organizations ramping up security amidst war in Israel
DARTMOUTH, Mass. (WLNE) — With all attention on the war in Israel, Muslim organizations in Southern New England are take precautionary measures to safeguard themselves from potential threats.
Martin Bentz, outreach coordinator for the Islamic Society of Southeastern Massachusetts, told ABC 6 Wednesday that he supports the Palestinian cause, but denounces the violence used by Hamas.
“It’s painful,” said Bentz. “It’s terrifying because we know the Israeli response will be very severe, and we know it can then escalate.”
Fearing that Muslims may be targeted in Southern New England for the attacks by Hamas, Bentz and Masjid Al Ehsan will implement a new security system to safeguard the Dartmouth mosque.
He added, “We just voted on Sunday to actually purchase a security system… So we can identify any sort of aggression.”
As of Wednesday, roughly 1,200 people are dead and 3,000 more are injured from the air, sea, and land attacks by Hamas against Israel.
Bentz and the Muslim community of Southern New England said there is to be concerned about potential threats.
“It’s based on ignorance,” said Bentz. Those people who have attacked all of us based on the incursion of Hamas don’t understand the conditions Palestinians are living under. Therefore, they think all Muslims are violent and aggressive and terrorists.”
Bentz confirmed they are working with Jewish organizations in the Dartmouth area as other potential targets as a result of the war.
The security system at Masjid Al Ehsan will be operating within two weeks.
