Josh Mehlman

@SpeakerMenin Congratulations Speaker.

Today, the Council passed my legislation to protect safe access to houses of worship while fully upholding the sacrosanct rights to free speech and protest. This bill requires the NYPD to publish their plans, strengthens transparency and accountability, and ensures communities are part of the process. We also advanced a broader package to improve safety at schools and houses of worship, combat harassment, educate students on online hate, and expand support for student loan borrowers. Thank you to my Council colleagues for prioritizing this important work.

Thank you @NYPDBklynSouth Chief Minch @NYPD61Pct @NYPD63Pct @NYPD70Pct @NYPD60Pct @NYPD66Pct @NYPD62Pct @NYPDCommAffairs @NYPDPC @BrooklynDA for the pre Passover security briefing @FlatbushJCC leadership.

Such a meaningful afternoon with Chasdei Lev and volunteers distributing food in Brooklyn ahead of Passover. Thank you for all you do for our communities.

Good conversation with @NYAMCunningham

@SusieWiles Praying for your well-being.

Last week, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Nearly one in eight women in the United States will face this diagnosis. Every day, these women continue to raise their families, go to work, and serve their communities with strength and determination. I now join their ranks. I am grateful to have an outstanding team of doctors who detected the cancer early and are guiding my care, and I am encouraged by a very good prognosis. I am also deeply thankful for the support and encouragement of President Trump as I undergo treatment and continue serving in my role as White House Chief of Staff.

@SpeakerMenin leads with clarity. After receiving the well deserved Distinguished Public Leadership Award she spoke of "the importance of always standing firmly with our Jewish communities and confronting the alarming rise in antisemitism." Thank you Speaker @JulieMenin @CMBrooksPowers @InnaVernikov @CMFarahLouis @CMCHRISBANKS42 @CMMercedesCD46 @SimchaFelderNY

Sunday morning with community's advocates State Senator Sam Sutton @SenatorSutton Council Member Simcha Felder @SimchaFelderNY and future Assembly Member Joey Saban @joeycsaban

Elected officials showing support for our community at this time is crucial. This morning at the @COJOFlatbush Breakfast. Thank you @NewYorkStateAG @NYCComptroller @AMBichotte @AMDavidWeprin @CMMercedesCD46 @Powers4Queens

EL AL Will Operate Special Flights for American Citizens Whose Flights from Israel Were Canceled Thousands of American citizens whose flights back to the United States were canceled due to the war with Iran are currently staying in Israel. As part of an arrangement between the U.S. Department of State, the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem, and EL AL, beginning March 16, we will operate six non-stop flights from Tel Aviv to New York designated exclusively for American citizens. These flights are expected to depart at full capacity, subject to Government Approvals. Starting Sunday morning, we will proactively contact American citizens holding valid EL AL flight tickets whose flights were canceled and have not yet been reassigned, and will offer them placement on these dedicated flights At No Additional Cost. We kindly request that all EL AL customers holding American citizenship complete the following Registration Website form: elal.com/eng/about-elal… We are prepared to expand the Flight Schedule for dedicated flights for American citizens, understanding that the current number of flights provides only a partial solution and does not meet the high demand. Any expansion of activity will be carried out Subject to additional Government Approvals.

Today marks the 32nd Yahrzeit of Ari Halberstam, whose promising life was cut short in an act of antisemitic terror on the Brooklyn Bridge. His loss continues to be felt deeply in New York and across the world. May his memory inspire us to remain committed to combating hate.

Some heroes wear capes — Chief Aaron Edwards wears blue.

The Israel Heritage Foundation extends heartfelt gratitude to the incredible Shai Graucher from Next Level - you're a true champion of kindness! Your tireless efforts helped stranded Americans get home, showcasing your remarkable dedication to helping others. Thank you for being a beacon of hope!

@NYPDBklynSouth @NYPD70Pct @NYPD61Pct @NYPD66Pct @NYPD63Pct @NYPD62Pct

Attended swearing-in ceremony of new Co-Chief Chaplains of the NYPD at 1 Police Plaza @NYCMayor @NYPDPC @NYPDChiefOfDept Pictured here with @NYPDChiefPatrol Chief Philip Rivera @NYPDHousing Chief Charles McEvoy and Chief Surgeon Eli J. Kleinman

American Citizens in UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Israel: To receive departure assistance information from the Department of State about available aviation and ground transportation options, please fill out the following form: mytravel.state.gov/s/crisis-intake

Yes, the State Department is actively securing military aircraft and charter flights for American citizens who wish to leave the Middle East. We've been in direct contact with nearly 3,000 Americans abroad. American citizens should call 1-202-501-4444 for assistance with departure options.

The @POTUS Trump Administration has no higher priority than the safety and security of Americans everywhere. Here is a brief summary of our latest security guidance for Americans in the Middle East as of March 1, 4pm EST. To get the latest updates visit travel.state.gov/destination, and enroll to receive alerts directly at step.state.gov. Americans who need consular help can reach us 24/7 by phone: +1-202-501-4444 (from abroad) and +1-888-407-4747 (from the U.S. and Canada).

For American who are currently in Israel I want to share this thorough (but long) update on options for departing. There are VERY LIMITED options. As of now, the best is utilizing Israel's Ministry of Tourism shuttle bus to Taba, Egypt and getting flights from there or going on to Cairo for flights back to the US. I will give details of that option below. We are getting a lot of requests regarding evacuating from Israel from American citizens who are currently in Israel or who have family here. I do not recommend exit via Jordan at this time.  Flights are not consistent and access across the Allenby crossing has limited hours. All of our personnel from embassy are sheltering in place, but I realize you may need to get people out and back home and not continue to incur hotel costs.  I’m adding what we are recommending for now.  Not sure when Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv will reopen.  Hopefully soon, but even when it does, there will be VERY limited flights with priorities to those who already were ticketed by El Al.  Doubtful that other airlines will fly in/out for a while.  The Ministry of Tourism is operating buses to Taba.  That crossing is further away but it’s open 24/7.  There are some flights from Taba, but there are also options to get to Cairo and it’s operating normally except to Middle Eastern countries.  To get out, it’s the best option for now.  If not already enrolled in STEP program, do so as you will be emailed updated information from the embassy and State Department.  A link to Step is at bottom of message.  Praying your safe passage! Security Alert:  U.S. Embassy Jerusalem (March 2, 2026) UPDATE on Ministry of Tourism Shuttles. Location:  Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza Event:  Security Alert As a result of the current security situation throughout the region, the U.S. Embassy has directed that all U.S. government employees and their family members continue to shelter in place in and near their residences until further notice. The U.S. Embassy is not in a position at this time to evacuate or directly assist Americans in departing Israel. The following is provided for your information as you make your own security plans: The Israeli Ministry of Tourism has begun operating shuttles to the Taba Border Crossing as of March 2.  To be added to the passenger list for a shuttle, you must register via the Ministry’s evacuation form.  The U.S. Embassy cannot make any recommendation (for or against) the Ministry of Tourism’s shuttle.  The information is provided as a courtesy to those wishing to leave Israel. Passengers who wish to cross to Jordan may take the shuttle to Eilat and continue independently (by taxi) to the Yitzhak Rabin Border Crossing. Buses will be stationed at meeting points across the country, including Herzliya: Train Station Parking Lot Haifa: Yad HaShmona Train Station Parking Lot Jerusalem: Teddy Stadium, East Parking Lot Tel Aviv: Savidor Center Train Station Parking The land crossing to Egypt at Taba was also operating and is scheduled to be open 24 hours a day.  There is a visa fee for some travelers. U.S. citizens who are not exiting the Sinai region for other parts of Egypt do not have to pay the fee.  Security conditions can change without warning, closing any border crossing. How to Pay: It is highly recommended to pay in advance via the official website: borderpay.metropolinet.co.il/en/home-3/. Note: The toll is valid only for the specific date of purchase and cannot be changed or refunded. As of March 2, there were limited flight options from the airports in Taba and Sharm al-Sheikh, Egypt. On March 2, the Southern (Yitzhak Rabin/Wadi Araba) crossing into Jordan accepts the last passengers at 1900. The Queen Alia International Airport is open on Monday, March 2.  Flights with Royal Jordanian Airlines were available from Jordan on a limited basis. Please check with your airline and expect delays. Before traveling to the border crossings, U.S. citizens should consult the Israel Home Front Command guidance. Please check the status of the land crossings here. - The U.S. Embassy reminds U.S. citizens of the continued need for caution and increased personal security awareness – including knowing the location of the nearest shelter in the event of a red alert as security incidents, such as mortar, rocket, and missile fire, and unmanned aircraft system (UAS) intrusions, often take place without any warning. The security environment is complex and can change quickly. In response to security incidents and without advance notice, the U.S. Embassy may further restrict or prohibit U.S. government employees and their family members from traveling to certain areas of Israel (including the Old City of Jerusalem) and the West Bank. U.S. citizens can find additional information regarding steps to take in case of mortar and rocket fire and hostile aircraft intrusion in the Country Information for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza: Mortar and Rocket Fire or Hostile Aircraft Intrusion: In the event of mortar or rocket fire or Hostile Aircraft Intrusion, a “red alert” siren may be activated. Treat all such alerts as real. Follow the instructions from local authorities and seek shelter immediately. Know the location of your closest shelter or protected space. U.S. government personnel and their family members may be restricted from traveling to areas affected by rocket activity, sirens, and/or the opening of bomb shelters. For additional information on appropriate action to take upon hearing a siren or explosion, see the Israel Defense Forces Home Front Command website (available on devices within Israel) or view the Preparedness Information. U.S. citizens may also wish to download the free Israel Defense Forces Home Front Command application on Android or Apple devices to receive real-time security and safety alerts. Free commercial applications, such as Red Alert: Israel, are also available. Actions to Take: 1. Refer to our website for the latest Security Alerts: il.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-se…. 1. Be aware of your surroundings. 1. Learn the location of the nearest bomb shelter or other hardened shelter. Download the Home Front Command Red Alert application or similar apps for mobile devices (available on devices within Israel) to receive real time alerts for rocket and missile attacks and armed UAV intrusions. 1. Avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings. 1. Avoid all areas where there is a heavy police presence. 1. Monitor local media. 1. Follow the instructions of local authorities. 1. Enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).  STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates and makes it easier for the U.S. Embassy to contact you in an emergency. 1. Regularly monitor the State Department’s website, where you can find current Travel Advisories (including the Travel Advisory for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza) and the Worldwide Caution.  Read the Country Information for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza.  For additional information, refer to “Traveler’s Checklist” on the State Department’s website. Assistance: U.S. Embassy Jerusalem 14 David Flusser St. Jerusalem Telephone: +972-2-630-4000 E-mail: JerusalemACS@state.gov Website: il.usembassy.gov U.S. Embassy Branch Office Tel Aviv 71 HaYarkon St. Tel Aviv Telephone: +972-3-519-7575 E-mail: TelAvivACS@state.gov Website: il.usembassy.gov State Department – Consular Affairs 888-407-4747or 202-501-4444 Israel, West Bank, and Gaza Country Information Israel, West Bank, and Gaza Travel Advisory  Enroll in Safe Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates.

As Jewish communities welcome Purim, the NYPD will be out in full force to ensure everyone can celebrate safely. Given the heightened threat environment, and out of an abundance of caution, the NYPD is deploying extra resources to Jewish sites and neighborhoods across the five boroughs.   You will see counterterrorism and other specialized teams, additional cops on the streets and in the subways, and drones supporting our efforts from above. There will be assets you see, and those you don’t see.   As always, we remind the public to remain vigilant and notify the NYPD of suspicious activity by calling 1-888-NYC-SAFE or 911.   Chag Purim Sameach

Thank you @SpeakerMenin and Council leadership for prioritizing this important matter. @FlatbushJCC