New York Mayor Bill de Blasio said his city will not be intimidated or live in fear after the Islamic State group released a new video Wednesday evening threatening the largest city in the U.S.
"We understand it is the goal of terrorists to intimidate and disrupt out democratic society," de Blasio said. "We will not submit to their wishes."
He spoke from Times Square, a popular tourist spot that appears in the video. The images show what appears to be an explosive device that is then zipped inside someone's leather jacket followed by shots of Times Square.
The New York Police Department (NYPD) and the mayor pointed out that some of the footage used in the video was old. De Blasio said there is no credible threat to New York and encouraged people to continue with their normal business in the city.
"In New York, we understand that we are a terrorist target," he said. "It reflects the importance of this city. Understanding that, this city places great importance on the safety of New Yorkers and almost 60 million visitors who have come to this city."
NYPD Director of Communication J. Peter Donald also stressed there is no current threat to the city but said on Twitter the city is on alert.
"We will remain at a heightened state of vigilance and will continue to work with the FBI, the Joint Terrorism Task Force and the entire intelligence community to keep the city of New York safe," Donald said.
The threat to New York follows one made against Washington Monday in an Islamic State video that also threatened all countries “that take part in the crusader campaign."
U.S. President Barack Obama’s top adviser on counterterrorism said Wednesday there is no “credible threat” against Washington.
