FBI, law enforcement brace for potential threats during New Year's Eve bash

 "I would say overall that, yes, there are threats out there, but we are there around the clock to protect the community," said James Smith of the FBI.

NEW YORK – A foreign war between Israel and Hamas has stoked tensions across the US, including in New York City, where more than 1 million people are expected to flock in the new year.

James Smith, assistant director in charge of the New York FBI field office, said there are concerns about an increase in international and domestic terrorism and hate crimes, and law enforcement continues to monitor all threats.

"I would say overall that, yes, there are dangers out there, but we are out there day and night to protect the community," Smith told Fox News Digital.

“This is our mission – to protect the community from all threats.”

Smith said the FBI, which is working with dozens of local, state and other federal law enforcement agencies, is prepared to respond to potential threats.

But it's equally important that revelers pay attention to their surroundings and follow the adage, "If you see something, say something."

"We can't protect the community without people reporting if there is a threat or a potential crime going on," Smith said.

There will be a large law enforcement presence in and around Times Square from Sunday night through early Monday. Some will be secret; Others will be in tactical gear.

"We will have a footprint within the Times Square celebration for the safety of the community," Smith said. “We will have everything from our SWAT element to bomb teams working with our partners.”

There is also a command post behind the scenes, where the FBI and dozens of other agencies are monitoring potential threats and crimes.

"The command post is a room full of different partners, where we're all communicating with each other about what we're seeing on the streets," Smith said.

"We understand where our people were throughout the event. We understand where some hot spots may be. I'm sure there will be some exhibits or suspicious packages."

He said, therefore, it is important to send the right people to the right place at the right time.

But Smith said the main thing is he wants everyone to enjoy the event.

When Smith was asked if he had a message for New Yorkers, he said, "Have a good time. Don't worry. We're here to protect you."

"The only thing I'm asking is if you see something, say something. If you think something is wrong tell the police officer on the corner or report it."