West Asia conflict: Delhi Police step up intelligence gathering, vigil on social media amid fears of ‘foreign hand’

According to a directive issued to senior officers, security has been specifically strengthened at sensitive locations, including the US Embassy, the American Centre on Kasturba Gandhi Marg, the American Embassy School in Chanakyapuri, synagogues and cemeteries on Humayun Road, Chabad Houses and synagogues at Paharganj and Vasant Vihar – which also houses several foreign diplomats. “Senior officers have directed that all these sites be monitored through CCTV cameras, with SWAT teams and PCR vans deployed at prominent junctions,” the officer added.

“Field units have been directed to carry out intensified checks at hotels, guest houses, and other potential hideouts. Adequate measures are in place to ensure law and order,” said another senior police officer, adding that daily reports will be submitted by the Special Commissioners (Intelligence and Law & Order Zones) both in the morning and evening on the latest developments.

The latest directives follow a nationwide advisory from the Union Home Ministry, which urged all DGPs and security agencies to strengthen vigil around Iranian and Israeli missions, consulates, and cultural centres. “Specific instructions were issued to enhance security at the Embassy and Consulates of the Islamic Republic of Iran, its cultural establishments, and the residences of diplomats across major cities,” an officer said.

Similarly, the Centre has asked state police forces to upscale protection for Israeli interests, citing intelligence inputs pointing to elevated risks for Israeli diplomats, establishments, and citizens. “Security has been beefed up around Israeli Missions and Consulates, Jewish community centres, Chabad Houses, Israeli businesses, tourist sites, kosher restaurants, and other venues frequented by Israeli nationals,” the officer added.