President Donald Trump announced "major combat operations" against Iran on Saturday, with strikes in the joint U.S.-Israel attack targeting military and government sites, officials said.
In a statement, the department said it is "closely monitoring events" overseas and is coordinating with federal and international partners. Out of "an abundance of caution," officers will step up patrols at diplomatic missions, cultural institutions, religious sites, and other locations that could be considered vulnerable.
RELATED: Live updates on the joint U.S.-Israel strike on Iran
Officials stressed there are no specific or credible threats to the city at this time, but urged New Yorkers to remain alert. The public is encouraged to report anything suspicious by calling 1-888-NYC-SAFE or 911.
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul also released a statement emphasizing that the state is working to protect New Yorkers following the attack.
"Following the U.S. military operations in Iran overnight, we are taking precautionary steps to protect New Yorkers. State Police are increasing their presence at religious, diplomatic, and cultural sites statewide in coordination with federal, state, and local law enforcement partners. Additionally, in advance of the Jewish holiday of Purim, State Police remain alert and have already begun outreach to religious organizations to offer support," Hochul said.
Heightened security concerns after US and Israel attack Iran
ABC News contributor and retired FBI agent Rich Frankel says the public should adopt a post 9/11 mindset.
If you see an unattended bag or suspicious behavior in a large crowd, alert law enforcement. Stay vigilant in large gathering places or at symbolic American institutions
Like Wall Street, the New York public library, a transit hub, or museum. Power grids or financial institutions could also become the target of a cyber-attack.
"They may target Christian or Catholic locations just because it's a symbol of America and they may target mosques because they may see a certain mosque as somebody who is cooperating with the Americans and also may make it think that it's an easier target," says Frankel.
On Long Island, Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine said the county will also be ramping up security measures in light of the attack.
"In light of recent events in Iran, Suffolk County Police are increasing patrols and checks at government buildings, religious institutions and critical infrastructure," said Romaine in a message posted on social media.
"Although there are currently no credible threats in our area, members of the department are monitoring the situation and are in communication with our law enforcement partners."
Over in New Jersey, there are currently no known credible threats to the Garden State, according to acting State Police Superintendent Jeanne Hengemuhle.
"The New Jersey State police is actively monitoring the situation and will continue working with our federal, state, county and local partners to ensure the safety of New Jersey's places of worship," Hengemuhle said.
The massive operation sparked threats of retaliation by Iran and reports of incoming missiles and drones around the Middle East.
"Our objective is to defend the American people by eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime, a vicious group of very hard, terrible people," Trump said in a video statement.
U.S. officials said the operation could potentially last days, and Trump acknowledged that there may be American casualties.
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