Final preparations underway as world leaders gather for United Nations General Assembly
NEW YORK (WABC) -- Final preparations are underway as world leaders gather in New York City this week for the United Nations General Assembly.
More than 150 heads of state and their entourages will arrive at the United Nations headquarters to mark the 80th session of the General Assembly.
The NYPD is also increasing its police presence surrounding the upcoming Jewish High Holidays, which are happening amid the war in the Middle East.
Security measures will include an elaborate NYPD web of motorcades, drones, patrol officers and street closures.
Houses of worship across the city will also start to see a heavily armed police presence, with Rosh Hashanah set to begin at sundown on Monday and last until Thursday. Yom Kippur happens next week.
ALSO READ: Officials detail security measures for UN General Assembly
The first dignitaries are expected to arrive on Sunday, including President Donald Trump. Among other attendees include Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and dozens of other high profile politicians with their own logistics and security teams.
In a joint press conference, New York City Mayor Eric Adams, the NYPD and the Secret Service gave an update on the preparations to keep everyone safe.
"The resources that we are deploying are extensive and go beyond just a uniformed presence,' said NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch. "Our specialized units will be out in full force all week, including harbor units on the rivers, aviation assets over head, heavy weapons teams and counter-terrorism officers on the street and our TARU drone team will be providing real time situational awareness."
Gridlock Alert Days are in effect for the UN General Assembly, and so officials are encouraging people to use public transportation when possible to avoid city traffic.
ALSO READ: NYC Gridlock Alert Days 2025: What you need to know
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