US synagogues face skyrocketing security costs. Rabbis call it an 'antisemitism tax.'

• Synagogues require heavier security as antisemitic incidents surge during the Israel-Hamas war.
• As congregations pay the price, rabbis call the increasing security costs an "antisemitism tax."
• Synagogue leaders struggle to balance maintaining safety with building community.

In the wooden pews of Congregation Kehilath Jeshurun synagogue in New York City, next to the prayer books and Bibles, laminated sheets detail instructions for an active-shooter scenario.

"What do I do in an emergency?" the placards read in bold, red letters. Directives include "Proceed quickly and quietly to the nearest exit," "Follow instructions from synagogue staff," and "Do not panic."