MIAMI BEACH, Fla. — As tensions escalated in the Middle East after the U.S. and Israel launched a major attack on Iran on Saturday, South Florida officials moved quickly to reassure residents and visitors of their safety.
In a statement, the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office said it is taking immediate security measures.
“In light of recent international events involving Iran, the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office is taking immediate security measures by increasing patrols to ensure the safety of our residents. At this time, no local threats have been identified in our community,” MDSO wrote.
Deputies have increased their presence around places of worship, cultural centers and schools and remain in close coordination with federal, state and local partners, the statement said.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the servicemen and women protecting our national security interests around the globe,” an MDSO spokesperson wrote. “We will continue monitoring as the situation evolves. Public safety remains our highest priority.”
The Miami Beach, Bal Harbour, and Sunny Isles Beach police departments also announced increased patrols ahead of Purim, citing ongoing Middle East tensions.
Bal Harbour police said they are closely monitoring developments and remain in communication with local, state, and federal partners, adding that “at this time, there are no credible threats to our community.” Officers have enhanced patrols and increased their presence as a precaution.
Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava also weighed in on the ongoing tension in the Middle East.
“The escalating conflict between the U.S., Israel & Iran threatens stability & security,” she wrote in a statement to Local 10 News. “My thoughts are with the people of Israel, our Jewish community in South Florida & the Iranian people seeking freedom and dignity. We must pursue stability and diplomacy, not further violence.”
Political reactions
Several South Florida lawmakers also weighed in on the strikes and Iran’s situation.
“The Iranian regime is a sadistic, malevolent actor, unrepentant for their worldwide, murderous actions,” wrote U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, (D) Florida District 25. “The next action must be that President Trump comply with the War Powers Act and immediately consult and fully brief Congress before any further action is taken.”
“The collapse of the regime in #Iran would be one of the greatest geopolitical victories of our time. It would entirely shift the balance of power on the global stage & turn a longtime foe into an ally & friend of the West. The only way to peace is total victory!” wrote U.S. Rep. Carlos Gimenez, (R) Florida District 28
“I commend President @realDonaldTrump for standing in solidarity with the brave Iranian people, who continue to demand freedom, dignity, and basic human rights despite ruthless crackdowns. Hundreds of protesters have been killed simply for exercising those rights.” wrote U.S. Rep. Mario Díaz-Balart (R) Florida District 26
“As regional partners remain on high alert, my thoughts are with the brave American service members in harm’s way. At this critical moment, we recognize the extraordinary dedication and sacrifice of those deployed abroad. They serve with courage under immense pressure.” wrote U.S. Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D) Florida District 23.
“The brave people of Iran have suffered under a theocratic dictatorship that imprisoned, murdered and silenced them. No American President has had the strength to do what needed to be done to give the people a chance, until now.” wrote U.S. Rep. Maria Salazar (R) Fla Distict 27.
Miami-Dade Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez also issued a statement Friday saying in part:
“President Donald J. Trump showed strong and decisive leadership in the face of a nuclear threat against Americans and the world,” he wrote. “When our Commander-in-Chief acts to protect our troops, defend our allies, and safeguard our national security.”
The Foreign Ministry of the Islamic Republic of Iran condemned what it called “criminal military aggression by the United States and the Zionist regime,” accusing both countries of violating Iran’s sovereignty and attacking defense infrastructure and civilian sites.
The ministry said Iran would respond “with authority” and urged the United Nations to condemn the strikes.
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