Faith-Based Daily Awareness Post 6 May 2025

These updates are shared to help raise the situational awareness of Faith-Based organizations to best defend against and mitigate the impacts from all-hazards threats including physical security, cybersecurity, and natural disasters. 

Reports: Arrested Iranian suspects may have been ‘hours away’ from ‘major attack’ on UK synagogue

Reports indicate that Iranian suspects were arrested in the UK just hours before allegedly carrying out a major attack on a synagogue or other Jewish site. The suspects were reportedly in the final stages of planning, suggesting a high level of threat. This incident is being investigated as a potential act of terrorism, possibly with international ties, and raises serious concerns about the safety of Jewish communities and foreign influence in domestic security matters.

Analyst Comments: The foiled attack which reportedly targeted a synagogue underscores the ongoing vulnerability of faith-based organizations. Synagogues, mosques, and churches are frequently viewed as symbols of religious identity, making them prime targets for politically or ideologically driven violence. It is crucial for faith-based institutions to stay alert and prioritize security measures to protect against threats from both domestic and international terror groups. In light of increasing threats, faith-based organizations particularly those with high public visibility should review and update their security protocols.

The FB-ISAO continues to track trends related to attacks on houses of worship. As a reminder, tomorrow 07 May we will be hosting a members only briefing to review the 2024 data on “Incidents Affecting Houses of Worship” which will begin at 12pm ET. Interested members can Register Here.

Related Articles:

• How ‘SAS swooped on Iran-backed terror cell’: Special Forces troops joined police on UK streets to arrest suspects ‘who were HOURS away from major terror attack on UK synagogue’
• Four Iranian men questioned over alleged major terror plot against British target

House members put forward highest-ever request for nonprofit security funding for 2026

A bipartisan group of 145 U.S. House members is advocating for a significant increase in funding for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) in fiscal year 2026, requesting $500 million the highest amount ever proposed for the program. This initiative, led by Representatives Bill Pascrell (D-NJ) and Michael McCaul (R-TX) aims to address the escalating threats faced by religious and nonprofit institutions, particularly Jewish organizations, in the wake of rising antisemitic incidents following the October 7 Hamas attacks on Israel.

The NSGP, administered by the Department of Homeland Security, provides critical funding to nonprofits and faith-based organizations to enhance their security infrastructure. Despite previous increases, the program has been unable to meet the growing demand; in 2024, only 43% of applications were funded leaving many institutions vulnerable. Advocates argue that the proposed $500 million is essential to ensure the safety and security of communities at risk.

This push for increased funding reflects a broader concern among lawmakers and community leaders about the adequacy of current security measures for vulnerable populations. The proposed increase would not only bolster physical security but also provide training and resources to better prepare organizations against potential threats.

Analyst Comments: The growing demand for NSGP funding indicates that faith-based organizations are becoming more aware of their vulnerability to physical threats, such as hate-motivated incidents and targeted violence. This has led to a more proactive approach to risk management including the use of surveillance technology, access control measures, and staff preparedness training signaling a broader trend toward operational readiness within the nonprofit sector. Investing in physical security measures such as cameras and reinforced entry points is important but their effectiveness increases significantly when paired with initiatives like security awareness training, emergency drills, and clear communication procedures. Grant programs that support both infrastructure and preparedness efforts offer more comprehensive protection, helping faith-based organizations respond effectively to a variety of threats from targeted violence to natural disasters.

FEMA Is Ending Door-to-Door Canvassing in Disaster Areas

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is discontinuing its longstanding practice of door-to-door canvassing in disaster areas, a shift outlined in a May 2 memo obtained by WIRED. Instead, FEMA will focus on providing assistance through fixed facilities and by collaborating more closely with state, local, tribal, and nonprofit partners. This change is part of broader reforms aimed at streamlining disaster response efforts for the 2025 hurricane and wildfire season.

While FEMA officials argue that this move will enhance efficiency and empower local entities, critics including FEMA employees and emergency management experts express concern that eliminating door-to-door outreach may hinder aid accessibility for vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and disabled, who may face challenges reaching fixed Disaster Recovery Centers. The decision also follows past controversies including allegations of political bias during previous canvassing efforts, although internal investigations found no systemic misconduct.

As FEMA reduces its direct outreach operations amid broader federal budget cuts, questions arise about the capacity of smaller states and communities to fill the service gaps left by the agency’s withdrawal. The effectiveness of this new approach will likely depend on the strength of local infrastructures and the availability of resources to support disaster survivors.

Analyst Comments: FEMA’s decision to end door-to-door canvassing reflects a shift toward more centralized and cost-efficient disaster response. While this may improve operational efficiency it also raises concerns about accessibility for individuals who may struggle to reach fixed Disaster Recovery Centers such as older adults, people with disabilities, and low-income residents. The success of this new approach will largely depend on the ability of local partners to identify and assist those with the greatest needs. As a reminder, members will be receiving our Weekly Report on Thursday which will focus on Hurricane Preparedness, as we observe Hurricane Preparedness Week. To learn more about membership perks like our Weekly Reports and special threat briefings, visit our membership page.