Washington: The US Homeland Security Department issued a terrorism advisory bulletin on Sunday warning that the Iran conflict is creating a "heightened threat environment" in America following US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. The bulletin highlights potential threats, including low-level cyberattacks by pro-Iranian "hacktivists" and possible government-affiliated cyber operations against US networks.
According to Anadolu Agency, the agency noted that Iran maintains a "long-standing commitment to target US Government officials it views as responsible" for the death of top military commander Qasem Soleimani in January 2020. The National Terrorism Advisory System bulletin, effective through September 22, cautions about the likelihood of increased violent extremist mobilization, especially if Iranian leadership issues religious rulings that encourage retaliatory violence against domestic targets.
The bulletin further underscores concerns over recent "terrorist attacks" motivated by "anti-Semitic or anti-Israel sentiment," warning that the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict could inspire additional US-based plotting. Homeland chief Kristi Noem stated, "The ongoing Israel-Iran conflict brings the possibility of increased threat to the homeland in the form of possible cyberattacks, acts of violence, and antisemitic hate crimes."
The advisory follows American strikes on three Iranian nuclear sites using bunker-buster bombs at Fordo via B-2 stealth bombers, in addition to submarine-launched cruise missiles targeting the Natanz and Isfahan facilities. Joint Chiefs Chairman Air Force Gen. Dan Caine reported that more than 125 American aircraft participated in the mission, including stealth bombers, fighter jets, refueling tankers, a guided missile submarine, and surveillance aircraft.
US President Donald Trump announced that American forces conducted "very successful" strikes on the nuclear sites. The advisory's warnings aim to prepare and alert the public and relevant authorities to potential threats in light of recent developments.