No 'Credible Threat' To MA, Boston Police Will Increase Patrols

BOSTON — Law enforcement said there is no "credible threat" to Massachusetts, but will in some instances increase patrols in the wake of the U.S. killing of a top Iranian commander.

Boston and State Police issued statements just hours after officials confirmed an American strike killed Maj. Gen. Qassem Soleimani, a top figure in Iran. While Boston police did not specify any incident, State Police referenced "heightened tension between the United States and Iran."

Iran promised a "forceful revenge" in the aftermath of the killing of Soleimani, which was ordered by President Trump.

The Boston Police Department said it is increasing patrols in the city.

"While there is no credible threat to the City of Boston, the Boston Police Department continues to monitor events around the world," police said in a short statement Friday morning. "We will increase patrols to protect the city and the people that live in and visit our great city."

State Police said it will maintain a "standard stance of high alert and heightened situational awareness" and was ready to deploy additional assets if needed.

"The Department's Fusion Center will continue to coordinate with federal law enforcement partners to monitor incoming intelligence and will share any relevant information with public safety agencies throughout the state," State Police said.

Police also asked people to stay vigilant and report anything suspicious.

Responses to Soleimani's death from Massachusetts representatives in Washington ranged from skeptical to critical.

Sen. Elizabeth Warren, who is running for president, called the move "reckless."

Sen. Ed Markey decried "Trump’s apparent assassination of Soleimani" as a "massive, deliberate, and dangerous escalation of conflict with Iran."

Congressman Seth Moulton, a former Marine, called on the Trump administration to explain what the next steps are.