Addressing Internet Propaganda During a Time of War in Israel

By Heidi Gantwerk and Bill Ganley

SAN DIEGO — We have been made aware of propaganda circulating on the internet and social media calling for violence targeting Jews and Jewish organizations around the world on Friday, October 13, 2023. This form of emotional terrorism is meant to deter us from daily routines, activities, and adversely affect emotional stability.

Our Community Security Director, Bill Ganley, immediately contacted our local law enforcement authorities, including SDPD and our Sherrif’s Department.

This morning, Federation convened a meeting with Todd Gloria, San Diego Mayor; David Nisleit, San Diego Chief of Police; Kelly Martinez, San Diego County Sheriff; and leaders of our local Jewish organizations about their efforts keep us safe.

Here is what you need to know:

  • At present, there is no known or specific local threat to the San Diego Jewish community or its institutions. 
  • Local police have been increasing their patrols at Jewish institutions since Saturday and will continue throughout this weekend.
  • Police are not recommending any closures or alteration of activities.
  • However, they noted that they are monitoring this situation closely and will communicate directly to the community if this guidance changes or if there is a need to close institutions.

Secure Community Network, the national security arm of the Jewish Federations of North America, is actively monitoring for any information on social media concerning information to convey to police.

If you see something, please say something. In an emergency, call 911. When safe, please report incident here so we can liaise with police and Jewish institutions across the county.

For questions about this or any other safety or security issue, please contact Bill Ganley at bganley@securecommunitynetwork.org.

Thank you. We are committed to continue sharing meaningful information with our community throughout this difficult time. 

Our thoughts remain with the people of Israel and with all of you.

Heidi Gantwerk, President & Chief Executive Officer

Bill Ganley, Community Security Director