Iran conflict heightens threat environment, Department of Homeland Security issues warning
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Diverging Reports Breakdown
Iran conflict heightens threat environment, Department of Homeland Security issues warning
DHS: Pro‑Iranian hacktivists, actors affiliated with Iranian government likely to launch cyberattacks. Extremist groups at home, motivated by anti‑Semitic or anti‑Israel sentiment, could plan violent attacks on U.S. soil. DHS: Risk of independent actors acting out in violence could increase if Iran’s leadership issues a religious decree calling for reprisals within the United States.
The bulletin, issued June 22 under the National Terrorism Advisory System, warns that pro‑Iranian hacktivists and actors affiliated with the Iranian government are likely to launch low‑level cyberattacks against U.S. networks and internet‑connected devices “routinely” targeted for disruptive purposes. The alert runs through Sept. 22 and underscores the heightened risk to government infrastructure and private networks.
In addition to digital threats, the bulletin notes that extremist groups at home, motivated by anti‑Semitic or anti‑Israel sentiment linked to the Iran‑Israel conflict, could plan violent attacks on U.S. soil. DHS said the risk of independent actors acting out in violence could increase if Iran’s leadership issues a religious decree calling for reprisals within the United States.
“Multiple recent Homeland terrorist attacks have been motivated by anti-Semitic or anti-Israel sentiment, and the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict could contribute to US-based individuals plotting additional attacks,” the bulletin said.
DHS cited past disruptions of Iranian‑backed plots and noted that the Iranian government has “long‑standing commitment” to target U.S. officials it blames for the 2020 killing of a commander. U.S. law enforcement has repeatedly thwarted several potentially lethal plots.
The bulletin urges the public to remain alert, report suspicious activity—including unfamiliar cyber‑events or extremist expressions—and follow local safety guidance. DHS and the FBI recommend leveraging the “If You See Something, Say Something®” initiative, reporting threats to law enforcement, fusion centers or calling 911 in emergencies.
As geopolitical tensions ripple into the U.S. homeland, DHS officials stressed the importance of continued vigilance in the digital and physical realms. More information is available at DHS.gov/advisories.