A significant police presence enveloped Hollywood Boulevard and the area around the Dolby Theater as the 98th Academy Awards took place under tight security due to concerns about potential terrorist threats.
Multiple members of law enforcement were seen actively securing the red carpet and its surroundings, especially as the Star Limousine arrived for the event.
Black armored vehicles and chain-link fences were set up to prevent public access, ensuring the safety of the attendees.
Several bomb-sniffing dogs were sent out to check trash cans in Hollywood, with police on alert for any suspicious activities.
Before the show started, the canines made their way down the red carpet, while celebrities dazzled in elegant dresses and tuxedos.
However, police had to engage with anti-war demonstrators who arrived with signs and loudspeakers. Observers noted a person clad in riot gear being pulled away by authorities.
Amid rising tensions and terrorist threats linked to the ongoing Iran conflict, security measures for this year’s Oscars were heightened significantly.
Officials indicated that a one-mile security perimeter would be established around the awards ceremony, reportedly “better than ever.”
Los Angeles Police Department Lt. Mike Brand mentioned that this enhanced security strategy had been in the works for several months, aiming to tackle potential challenges and keep everyone safe.
He added that multiple divisions of the LAPD, alongside specialized agencies, would be present to oversee the security of the event.
As part of the strategy, cooperation with federal authorities is ongoing, including collaboration with the Joint Terrorism Task Force to monitor social media and gather pertinent information.
Hollywood Boulevard is set to be closed between Orange Drive and Highland Avenue for about a week, with barricades remaining in place for three days after the ceremony concludes on March 18.
Some smaller streets have already been off-limits for weeks, but recently the iconic Hollywood corridor has been converted into a heavily secured area for the red carpet.
This heightened state of alert comes after unverified reports surfaced about possible threats from Iranian drones targeting the California coast. An FBI memo leaked earlier this week mentioned “unconfirmed” information regarding a potential Iranian scheme, raising concerns.
However, White House press secretary Caroline Levitt and other officials quickly downplayed the warning, asserting that there was no credible threat to the U.S. mainland.
