Police are increasing patrols at temples and synagogues as the Jewish high holy days begin.

At the Kol Ami synagogue in White Plains, police stood guard outside as worshippers gathered to mark Rosh Hashanah, the beginning of the Jewish New Year that began at sundown Wednesday.

White Plains Public Safety Commissioner David Chong says law enforcement is on high alert even though there is no credible threat. The heightened tensions in the Middle East have also added urgency to the city's security precautions.

The Jewish holiday is observed through Friday, ending with Yom Kippur.