which is what the police say they are calling it as we speak. back to you. >> gregg palkot. ing thanks. >> the hostage situation in sydney playing out. americans evacuated from the area as the state department issues a warning for citizens to remain vigilant. here at home new york city cops are closely monitoring the situation. >> doug luzader is joining us with the story. >> both the white house and sta state department have put up statements on this. for the state department this threat is very real. take a look at the map of sidnesidne -- sydney. this is where the hostage situation is taking place. the u.s. consulate is over a block away. that's why the facility has been evacuated. here's part of a statement put out who said quote i can confirm the u.s. consulate general in sidney has been crack waevacuat.