Episodes

  • Terrorism Threat Remains High in the US, DHS Warns

    Terrorism Threat Remains High in the US, DHS Warns
    Apr 9 2025
    In the latest developments regarding terrorist threats in the United States, several key points have emerged from recent reports and legislative actions.

    The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has released its 2025 Homeland Threat Assessment, which highlights a persistently high threat environment from both domestic and foreign terrorism. The assessment notes that the terrorism threat in the U.S. is expected to remain elevated due to various factors, including potential violent extremist responses to domestic sociopolitical developments, such as the 2024 election cycle, and international events like the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. Lone offenders and small groups, motivated by a range of ideologies including racial, religious, gender, or anti-government grievances, continue to pose the greatest threat[1][5].

    Foreign terrorist organizations, including ISIS and al-Qa'ida, maintain their intent to conduct or inspire attacks in the U.S. The recent attacks by Hamas against Israel and subsequent calls by groups like ISIS and al-Qa'ida for lone offender attacks against critical infrastructure, such as U.S. government buildings and foreign embassies, have heightened concerns[1][2].

    Domestic Violent Extremism (DVE) remains a significant concern, with law enforcement agencies reporting a substantial increase in DVE investigations since 2020. DVE actors are categorized into several ideological motivations, including racially or ethnically motivated violent extremists, anti-government or anti-authority violent extremists, and others. These groups often use simple tactics and minimal technical knowledge to carry out attacks on critical infrastructure[1][2].

    In response to these threats, the House Committee on Homeland Security is set to markup legislation aimed at countering evolving terror threats. This includes bills such as the "Countering Transnational Repression Act of 2025," which would establish a dedicated office in DHS to counter threats from foreign authoritarian regimes, and the "Department of Homeland Security Vehicular Terrorism Prevention and Mitigation Act of 2025," which addresses the rising threat of vehicular terrorism. These legislative efforts are part of a broader strategy to enhance DHS counterterrorism capabilities and protect against state-sponsored cyber threats, particularly from the People’s Republic of China[3].

    Additionally, DHS has emphasized the ongoing threat from illegal drugs, particularly fentanyl and other synthetic opioids, which continue to pose a lethal threat to U.S. communities. Despite a decline in overdose deaths, these drugs remain a significant national security concern[5].

    The public is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity or threats of violence to local law enforcement, FBI Field Offices, or local Fusion Centers, as part of the collective effort to maintain public safety and security in the face of these evolving threats.
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    3 mins
  • "Homeland Security Warns of Elevated Terrorist Threats Ahead of 2024 Elections"

    "Homeland Security Warns of Elevated Terrorist Threats Ahead of 2024 Elections"
    Apr 7 2025
    In the latest developments regarding terrorist threats in the United States, several key points have emerged from recent reports and announcements.

    The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has released its 2025 Homeland Threat Assessment, which highlights a persistently high threat environment from both domestic and foreign terrorist actors. The assessment notes that the terrorism threat in the U.S. is expected to remain elevated over the coming year, driven by factors such as violent extremist responses to domestic sociopolitical developments, including the 2024 election cycle, and international events like the ongoing Israel-HAMAS conflict[1][5].

    Domestic Violent Extremists (DVEs) continue to pose a significant threat, with lone offenders and small groups motivated by various ideologies, including anti-government, racial, and gender-related grievances. These actors often use simple tactics and minimal preoperational planning, making them challenging to predict. Recent incidents, such as the attacks and disrupted plots between September 2023 and July 2024, underscore the ongoing danger from DVEs[1].

    Foreign terrorist organizations, including ISIS and al-Qa’ida, maintain their intent to conduct or inspire attacks in the U.S. The October 2023 terrorist attacks by HAMAS against Israel have galvanized calls from groups like ISIS and al-Qa’ida for lone offender attacks against U.S. critical infrastructure, such as government buildings and foreign embassies[1][2].

    In addition to these threats, the U.S. is also facing malign influence campaigns by adversarial states aimed at sowing distrust in American institutions and silencing critics. These state actors, particularly from countries like China, Russia, and Iran, are using subversive tactics to target ethnic and religious minorities, political dissidents, and journalists in the U.S.[1][5].

    Legislative efforts are underway to address these threats. The House Committee on Homeland Security is set to markup several pieces of legislation aimed at countering terrorism threats, including the "Countering Transnational Repression Act of 2025" and the "Strengthening Cyber Resilience Against State-Sponsored Threats Act." These bills aim to enhance DHS's counterterrorism efforts, combat transnational repression, and address cybersecurity threats posed by state-sponsored actors, particularly from China[3].

    The DHS has also emphasized the importance of public vigilance and cooperation in reporting suspicious activities and threats of violence to local law enforcement, FBI Field Offices, or local Fusion Centers. This collaborative approach is crucial in preparing for, preventing, and responding to the evolving threat landscape[4][5].

    In summary, the U.S. faces a complex and dynamic terrorist threat environment, with both domestic and foreign actors posing significant risks. Ongoing assessments and legislative actions reflect the ongoing efforts to mitigate these threats and ensure public safety and security.
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    3 mins
  • Evolving Terrorist Threats Plague the US: Domestic Extremists, Foreign Groups, and Online Radicalization Pose Significant Risks

    Evolving Terrorist Threats Plague the US: Domestic Extremists, Foreign Groups, and Online Radicalization Pose Significant Risks
    Apr 2 2025
    In the past 48 hours, several key developments and announcements have highlighted the ongoing and evolving terrorist threats facing the United States.

    According to the latest Homeland Threat Assessment 2025 released by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the terrorism threat environment in the United States is expected to remain high over the next year. This assessment underscores the persistent threats from domestic and foreign violent extremist actors, as well as the harmful effects of illegal drugs and malign influence campaigns by adversarial states.

    Domestic Violent Extremists (DVEs) continue to pose a significant threat, driven by various ideologies including anti-government, racial, and gender-related motivations. Recent incidents, such as the four attacks conducted by DVEs between September 2023 and July 2024, one of which resulted in a death, highlight the ongoing danger. Law enforcement has disrupted at least seven additional DVE plots during this period, indicating a high level of activity and intent among these groups[1].

    The ongoing conflict in the Middle East, particularly the Israel-HAMAS conflict, has galvanized violent actors, with groups like ISIS and al-Qa‘ida renewing calls for lone offender attacks against critical infrastructure, including U.S. government buildings and foreign embassies in the United States. These threats are exacerbated by the upcoming 2024 election cycle, which is expected to be a focal point for both domestic and foreign extremist activities[1].

    In addition to these domestic threats, foreign terrorist organizations (FTOs) remain a significant concern. The 2024 National Terrorist Financing Risk Assessment by the Department of the Treasury emphasizes that ISIS-inspired affiliates continue to pose a primary threat to U.S. interests overseas. Despite territorial losses, ISIS is seeking to exploit the end of the Assad regime in Syria to reconstitute its attack capabilities and free its prisoners to rebuild its ranks[5].

    The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) has issued an advisory highlighting the ongoing threat from ISIS and its global affiliates. This advisory, released on April 1, 2025, warns financial institutions to be vigilant about transactions that could support ISIS’s financial networks. It notes that ISIS advocates for attacks in the United States and Western countries, targeting civilians, the military, law enforcement, and intelligence personnel. Homegrown Violent Extremists (HVEs) inspired by ISIS have shown an interest in a wide range of targets and are likely to use easily accessible weapons such as firearms and vehicles[5].

    The role of online radicalization also remains a critical factor. The Internet continues to be a potent tool for terrorist groups to spread their ideologies, recruit new members, and incite violent actions. Recent reports emphasize the need for continued efforts to counter online radicalization, as it remains a significant innovation in homegrown radicalization since the September 11 attacks[4].

    In summary, the United States faces a multifaceted terrorist threat landscape, with both domestic and foreign actors posing significant risks. The recent assessments and advisories underscore the need for heightened vigilance and continued counterterrorism efforts to address these evolving threats.
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    4 mins
  • Heightened Terror Threats Prompt Increased Security Measures Nationwide

    Heightened Terror Threats Prompt Increased Security Measures Nationwide
    Mar 31 2025
    In the past 48 hours, the United States has remained on high alert due to ongoing and evolving terrorist threats, both domestic and foreign.

    Federal authorities have heightened security measures in the nation's capital, particularly in anticipation of several major events, including the funeral of former President Jimmy Carter and the inauguration of President-elect Trump. This increased security is driven by an abundance of caution, even though there is no specific known threat at this time[3].

    The recent deadly truck ramming attack in New Orleans, where an ISIS flag was found in the vehicle, has underscored the rising threat of terrorism. The FBI has been warning of an increase in terrorist threats, especially from homegrown violent extremists inspired by jihadist ideologies. Since the October 7, 2023, terrorist attacks by Hamas against Israel, the threat level has escalated significantly, with various terrorist groups calling for or threatening attacks on U.S. soil and against U.S. interests abroad[2][3].

    Domestic Violent Extremists (DVEs) continue to pose a significant threat. These individuals, often motivated by anti-government, racial, or gender-related grievances, have conducted several attacks in the homeland over the past year. Between September 2023 and July 2024, DVEs carried out at least four attacks, resulting in one death, and law enforcement disrupted at least seven additional DVE plots. These attacks and plots frequently involve lone offenders or small groups using simple tactics with minimal technical knowledge or preoperational planning[1].

    Critical infrastructure remains a prime target for these violent extremists. There have been calls for and instances of physical attacks against U.S. critical infrastructure, including electric grid substations and transformers. Recent unattributed shootings against transformers and electricity infrastructure near Lansing, Michigan, highlight the ongoing risk. Additionally, foreign terrorist organizations like al-Qa‘ida and ISIS have renewed calls for attacks against diplomatic facilities, the transportation sector, and civil aviation following the Israel-HAMAS conflict[1].

    The use of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) or drones over sensitive critical infrastructure sites is another concern. While there is currently no evidence that violent extremists are using drones for attack planning, there have been instances where DVEs and foreign terrorist organizations have considered using UAS for intelligence collection, dropping explosives, and disrupting airport operations[1].

    In summary, the U.S. is facing a heightened terrorist threat environment, with both domestic and foreign actors posing significant risks. The recent attacks and ongoing security alerts underscore the need for continued vigilance and robust counterterrorism measures to protect the homeland.
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    3 mins
  • Evolving Terrorist Threats Persist in the U.S., Warn Homeland Security Experts

    Evolving Terrorist Threats Persist in the U.S., Warn Homeland Security Experts
    Mar 26 2025
    In the latest assessments and updates regarding terrorist threats in the United States, several key points have emerged that highlight the ongoing and evolving nature of these threats.

    The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) recent Homeland Threat Assessment for 2025 underscores that the terrorism threat environment in the United States is expected to remain high. This heightened threat is attributed to several factors, including violent extremist responses to domestic sociopolitical developments and the 2024 election cycle. Domestic violent extremists (DVEs) and homegrown violent extremists (HVEs) inspired by foreign terrorist organizations (FTOs) continue to pose a significant threat, often motivated by a mix of racial, religious, gender, or anti-government grievances, as well as conspiracy theories and personal factors[1].

    The assessment also notes that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, particularly the Israel-HAMAS conflict, has galvanized violent actors and led to increased calls for lone offender attacks against critical infrastructure, including U.S. government buildings and foreign embassies. Groups like al-Qa‘ida and its affiliates have renewed these calls, further exacerbating the threat landscape[1].

    In addition to these domestic and foreign extremist threats, the DHS has emphasized the role of adversarial states in malignly influencing U.S. audiences and suppressing critical voices. These state actors are intent on sowing distrust in U.S. institutions and creating division within communities, with some efforts expected to intensify during the 2024 election cycle[1].

    The National Terrorism Advisory System (NTAS) bulletins have consistently warned of the persistent and lethal threat posed by lone offenders and small groups motivated by various ideological beliefs and personal grievances. These threats include potential violence targeting U.S. critical infrastructure, faith-based institutions, the LGBTQIA+ community, schools, racial and ethnic minorities, and government facilities and personnel[2].

    Recent analyses by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) indicate that while the frequency and lethality of jihadist attacks in the United States have decreased since the territorial defeat of the Islamic State in 2019, these attacks remain a serious threat. The CSIS notes that international terrorist organizations have inspired, rather than directed, most jihadist terrorism in the U.S., and that U.S. counterterrorist efforts have likely reduced the number of plots and attacks[3].

    The potential resurgence of ISIS in Syria, should U.S. forces withdraw, is another critical concern. Experts warn that without U.S. presence, ISIS could rapidly reconstitute and regain the ability to plan and conduct attacks in the West. The current U.S. military presence in Syria has been crucial in containing ISIS and preventing it from conducting attacks in the West[5].

    In summary, the terrorist threat landscape in the United States remains complex and multifaceted, with ongoing threats from domestic and foreign violent extremists, adversarial state actors, and the potential resurgence of groups like ISIS. The DHS and other agencies continue to work closely with law enforcement and community partners to identify, prevent, and respond to these threats, emphasizing the importance of public vigilance and cooperation in maintaining national security.
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    4 mins
  • Hospitals on High Alert: US Faces Evolving Terrorist Threats

    Hospitals on High Alert: US Faces Evolving Terrorist Threats
    Mar 22 2025
    In the past 48 hours, the United States has been alerted to several significant terrorist threats, highlighting the ongoing and evolving nature of security risks within the country.

    On March 18, 2025, the American Hospital Association (AHA) and the Health Information Sharing and Analysis Center (Health-ISAC) issued a joint threat bulletin warning U.S. hospitals about a potential coordinated multi-city terrorist attack. The alert was triggered by a social media post suggesting that ISIS-K, a division of the Islamic State, is planning advanced-stage attacks on hospitals across multiple mid-tier U.S. cities. These attacks are reportedly to involve Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs) followed by armed assaults and hostage scenarios. The AHA and Health-ISAC, although unable to corroborate or discount the credibility of the threat, have advised hospital security teams to review their emergency management plans, raise staff awareness, and remain vigilant for suspicious activity. This warning underscores the vulnerability of critical infrastructure, such as hospitals, which are often viewed as soft targets by terrorist groups[4].

    This alert comes against the backdrop of a broader terrorist threat landscape outlined in the Homeland Threat Assessment 2025 by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The assessment indicates that the terrorism threat environment in the United States will remain high over the next year, driven by factors such as violent extremist responses to domestic sociopolitical developments, the enduring intent of Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs) to conduct or inspire attacks, and the galvanizing effect of successful terrorist attacks abroad. Specifically, the ongoing Israel-HAMAS conflict and the upcoming 2024 U.S. election cycle are expected to exacerbate these threats. Domestic violent extremists (DVEs), motivated by various ideologies including anti-government, racial, and gender-related grievances, are also expected to continue posing a significant threat[2].

    Additionally, the assessment highlights that DVEs and other criminal actors are likely to target U.S. critical infrastructure, including government buildings and foreign embassies, in response to flashpoint events. The recent terrorist attack by HAMAS against Israel and subsequent Israeli operations in Gaza have prompted renewed calls from groups like al-Qa‘ida and ISIS for lone offender attacks against such targets[2].

    These threats are further complicated by the evolving nature of terrorist financing and the use of social media for radicalization. The 2024 National Terrorist Financing Risk Assessment notes that individuals inspired by AQ, ISIS, or DVE ideologies can be radicalized online and carry out deadly attacks with limited warning, posing a significant challenge to U.S. security[3].

    In response to these threats, the National Terrorism Advisory System (NTAS) continues to play a crucial role in communicating timely and detailed information to the American public. The system, which replaced the color-coded alerts of the Homeland Security Advisory System in 2011, ensures that all Americans are aware of the heightened risk of terrorist attacks and know what actions to take[1].

    As the U.S. remains vigilant against these threats, the coordination between federal agencies, local law enforcement, and critical infrastructure sectors such as healthcare is crucial for mitigating potential attacks and ensuring public safety.
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    4 mins
  • Evolving Terrorism Threat: DHS Warns of Increasing Risks Ahead of 2024 Elections

    Evolving Terrorism Threat: DHS Warns of Increasing Risks Ahead of 2024 Elections
    Mar 19 2025
    In the latest assessments and updates on terrorist threats in the United States, several key points have emerged that highlight the ongoing and evolving nature of these dangers.

    According to the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) Homeland Threat Assessment 2025, the threat of violence from US-based violent extremists, including Domestic Violent Extremists (DVEs) and Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO)-inspired homegrown violent extremists (HVEs), remains high. These extremists are often motivated by a mix of racial, religious, gender, or anti-government grievances, as well as conspiracy theories and personalized factors. The assessment notes that the 2024 election cycle and the ongoing Israel-HAMAS conflict are likely to be significant drivers of violence, with violent extremists potentially targeting critical infrastructure, government facilities, and other sensitive areas[2][3].

    Over the past year, DVEs have conducted several attacks, including at least four between September 2023 and July 2024, one of which resulted in a death. Law enforcement has disrupted at least seven additional DVE plots during this period. These attacks and plots often involve lone offenders or small groups using simple tactics that require minimal technical knowledge or preoperational planning[2].

    The threat from FTOs, such as ISIS and al-Qa‘ida, also persists. Following HAMAS’s October 2023 terrorist attack against Israel and subsequent Israeli operations in Gaza, these groups have renewed calls for lone offender attacks against US critical infrastructure, including government buildings, foreign embassies, and the transportation sector, particularly civil aviation. There is concern that FTO-inspired or enabled insiders may exploit vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure[2].

    Physical attacks on critical infrastructure, such as electric grid substations and transformers, have been reported. For instance, a series of unattributed shootings against transformers and electricity infrastructure near Lansing, Michigan, occurred between August 2023 and July 2024. These attacks, while localized and short-term in impact, underscore the ongoing threat to the energy sector and other critical infrastructure[2].

    DHS continues to work with various partners to mitigate these threats. The department shares timely and actionable information with government agencies, the private sector, and local communities. Initiatives such as the Prevention Resource Finder (PRF) website and the Nationwide Suspicious Activity Reporting (SAR) Initiative are part of the broader effort to prevent terrorism and targeted violence[2][3].

    In summary, the terrorist threat landscape in the United States remains complex and dynamic, with both domestic and foreign actors posing significant risks. The upcoming 2024 election cycle and ongoing global conflicts are expected to exacerbate these threats, highlighting the need for continued vigilance and cooperation among law enforcement, communities, and other stakeholders.
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    3 mins
  • Heightened Terrorism Threat Looms in the U.S., Warns Homeland Security

    Heightened Terrorism Threat Looms in the U.S., Warns Homeland Security
    Mar 15 2025
    In the latest assessments and updates from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the threat environment for terrorism in the United States remains heightened, with several key factors and recent developments highlighting the ongoing risks.

    According to the DHS's Homeland Threat Assessment 2025, the terrorism threat in the U.S. is expected to remain high over the next year. This is driven by a combination of domestic and foreign violent extremist actors, as well as the enduring intent of Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs) like ISIS and al-Qa‘ida to conduct or inspire attacks within the country. The assessment notes that violent extremist responses to domestic sociopolitical developments, including the 2024 election cycle, and the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, particularly the Israel-HAMAS conflict, are significant drivers of this threat[1].

    Domestic Violent Extremists (DVEs), motivated by various ideologies such as anti-government, racial, or gender-related grievances, continue to pose a persistent and lethal threat. Between September 2023 and July 2024, DVEs conducted at least four attacks in the U.S., resulting in one death, and law enforcement disrupted at least seven additional DVE plots. These actors often act as lone offenders or in small cells, making it challenging to predict their targets due to their vague or unrelated pre-attack statements online[1].

    The National Terrorism Advisory System (NTAS) Bulletin, updated recently, reinforces this heightened threat environment. It warns that lone offenders and small groups, motivated by ideological beliefs and personal grievances, continue to exploit online forums to spread violent extremist narratives and promote violent activity. Upcoming events, such as the 2024 general election cycle, legislative or judicial decisions on sociopolitical issues, and religious holidays with associated mass gatherings, are identified as potential catalysts for violence. Targets of potential violence include public gatherings, faith-based institutions, schools, racial and religious minorities, government facilities, critical infrastructure, the media, and perceived ideological opponents[2][3].

    Foreign terrorist organizations are also actively seeking to influence and mobilize violence in the U.S. through media calls and online messaging. For instance, following the recent terrorist attack by HAMAS against Israel and subsequent Israeli operations in Gaza, groups like al-Qa‘ida have renewed calls for lone offender attacks against U.S. critical infrastructure, including government buildings and foreign embassies[1].

    In response to these threats, DHS is working closely with federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial partners to share timely and actionable information and intelligence. Initiatives such as the Prevention Resource Finder (PRF) website and the Nationwide Suspicious Activity Reporting (SAR) Initiative are part of the efforts to prevent and mitigate targeted violence and terrorism. The public is also encouraged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity through the "If You See Something, Say Something" campaign[3].

    Overall, the current threat landscape in the U.S. underscores the need for continued vigilance and cooperation among all levels of government, the private sector, and local communities to address the complex and evolving nature of terrorist threats.
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    4 mins