In a security briefing held on Friday, New York City Mayor Adams and top police officials announced that the NYPD is gearing up for the possibility of thousands of pro-Palestine protesters demonstrating near Times Square during this weekend's New Year's Eve celebration.

While there are no known security threats related to the event, the Police Department remains on high alert. Mayor Adams cited an incident from last year's Times Square ball drop, where a Maine teenager allegedly attacked three NYPD officers with a machete. This demonstration highlights the need for preparedness even in the absence of specific threats.

Although no violence is anticipated, pro-Palestine groups have been calling for mass protests against Israel's military campaign in the Gaza Strip. The local authorities report that more than 20,000 people, including many children, have lost their lives in the conflict. The military action was initiated by Israel after Hamas, who controls Gaza, carried out a terror attack on October 7, killing 1,200 Israelis and taking hundreds hostage.

Assistant NYPD Chief John Hart, responsible for the department's intelligence division, acknowledged that prior pro-Palestine protests in the city have drawn between 1,000 and 5,000 people. The NYPD is prepared for demonstrations in any number and from different groups, guaranteeing safety during the celebrations.

Earlier this month, six pro-Palestine protesters were arrested near Rockefeller Center during clashes with the police. As the New Year's Eve protests are anticipated, Assistant NYPD Commissioner Kaz Daughtry stated that the department would adopt a similar approach to the one used during the recent attempt by pro-Palestine demonstrators to disrupt the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting. This will involve strategically parked tow trucks and the deployment of drones to monitor protests in real-time.

To ensure the safety of the area, thousands of police officers will be stationed in Times Square throughout the celebrations.

However, it was noticed that NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban was absent from Friday's briefing. Mayor Adams confirmed that Caban has been in the Dominican Republic on vacation and is expected to return on Saturday. The purpose of Caban's trip and the mention of "agreements" remained undisclosed.

When questioned about the absence of the commissioner, Adams defended the Police Department, stating that it is a well-oiled machine and not dependent on one individual.

Recently, Mayor Adams expressed concern about the NYPD's response to protests being limited by a court settlement in September. The settlement required a reduced deployment of officers and prohibited the use of a mass arrest tactic known as "kettling." Adams initially supported the settlement as striking the right balance between public safety and First Amendment rights. However, he has changed his stance, citing the exploitation of the settlement during pro-Palestine protests.

Adams specifically referred to recent demonstrations on the Brooklyn Bridge, where thousands of people blocked the bridge and were only issued summonses. He expressed his reluctance to encourage disruptive behavior in the city.

As New York City prepares for the renowned New Year's Eve celebration, the NYPD stands ready to uphold public safety, with a focus on potential pro-Palestine protests in Times Square. The department's enhanced security measures and increased police presence aim to ensure a peaceful and enjoyable event for all attendees.