(WJW) – One million Palestinians have been told to evacuate Gaza and major U.S. cities are increasing security, after a former Hamas leader called for protests during a “global day of Jihad.”

Communities in Northeast Ohio are reacting with an increased police presence in Jewish neighborhoods.

The Cleveland area is home to many Jews, some of whom live in Beachwood, University Heights, and Orange Village.

Those communities are promising to be vigilant and increase police patrols for their protection. There are no specific threats, however, there is concern the Hamas call to action might inspire violence.

Beachwood police released a statement Friday.

“While no specific threats currently target our community, I want you to be aware that Khaled Meshaal, a former leader of the Hamas organization, has disseminated a global proclamation designating today, October 13, 2023 as a ‘Day of Jihad.’ It is imperative to acknowledge what this call to action may evoke among those who are susceptible to its influence. The Beachwood Police Department has initiated proactive measures to enhance security citywide. In close coordination with both private and public law enforcement agencies, we are actively engaged in the collection of intelligence and have intensified patrol and visibility efforts. Our officers regard this matter with the utmost seriousness, and I have complete confidence in their abilities. In addition to our dedicated officers within our jurisdiction, personnel from the Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Department will be deployed within our city as part of our collaborative endeavor to ensure security for the foreseeable future.”

Beachwood Police Department

Orange Village Mayor Kathy Mulcahy released a statement saying, “I am writing to inform you about recent developments that warrant our collective attention. Hamas sympathizers and leadership have called for a worldwide “Day of Jihad” scheduled for today, October 13, 2023. Although we have not received any threats specific to our community or vicinity, we recognize this dangerous and vile call to action could resonate with the like-minded. We take this matter very seriously and understand the potential impact of such statements on our community.”

“The Orange Village Police Department, under the direction of Chief Christopher Kostura, is working closely with our private security partners and Federal Law Enforcement to enhance security throughout the Village. These dedicated people are committed to providing a safe community to live, work, and visit. We urge all community members to be vigilant and report ANYTHING suspicious to law enforcement. ‘If you see something, say something’ should be your guide and is of the utmost importance.”

To contact the Orange Village Police Department call 911 or 440- 247-7321.

“Thank you to everyone for taking this seriously and being a good neighbor and friend to our community. Together, we will keep Orange Village vibrant, safe and secure,” Mulcahy said in the statement.

In Israel, military forces continue launching air strikes against Hamas in the Gaza Strip and they have lined up along the border for a potential ground invasion.

This is retaliation against the deadly assault from Hamas terrorists last Saturday.

The blasts have leveled buildings, killing and injuring hundreds of Palestinians caught in the crossfire.

Hamas claims hostages are among the dead.

In an attempt to prevent more civilian casualties, the Israeli military told the United Nations Thursday night that more than one million people in northern Gaza should evacuate south over the next 24 hours.

The UN says moving that many people in 24 hours is impossible.

In the U.S., Americans wait to see what if any violence breaks out after that former Hamas leader’s call to action.

Beachwood and University Heights have told their communities they are on high alert just in case.

“Should you encounter anything that appears suspicious or raises concern, please do not hesitate to contact law enforcement,” Beachwood police said. “In case of an emergency, please dial 911 or you can reach The Beachwood Police Department directly at (216) 464-1234. We extend our profound gratitude to each and every one of you for your unwavering dedication to treating this matter with the utmost seriousness. As a unified force, we are committed to safeguarding the members of our community.”.