The FBI, Department of Homeland Security, and National Counterterrorism Center issued a joint public service announcement on Tuesday, claiming the threat of violence from a variety of actors would remain heightened through the winter.
The three agencies have assessed that tensions, both internationally and in the United States, related to the Israel-Hamas war likely heighten the threat of lone actor violence that threatens large public gatherings throughout the winter. This includes holiday-related, faith-based, and First Amendment events related to the conflict.
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The risk of lone-actor violence increased in October after various foreign terrorist organizations called for such attacks in the United States, but the announcement was not made in response to any specific plotting activity, the agencies said.
“Lone actors may seek to disrupt or escalate violence at large gatherings, high profile events, or symbolic or religious locations throughout the winter,” the FBI said in a statement. “Such gatherings could become a convenient target for those inspired to commit violence against Jewish, Christian, Muslim, and Arab communities.”
The agencies noted an uptick in faux bomb threats and shooting threats at synagogues in recent months, which it says is likely to intimidate members of the congregation or disrupt Jewish services.
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“Calls for violence may increase in the days leading up to the holidays and before other notable events this winter,” the agencies warned. “Factors that could further exacerbate the threat of violence include escalations in the conflict between Israel and Hamas, and notable instances of violence in the Homeland inspiring copycat or retaliatory attacks. We therefore urge everyone to remain vigilant and to report any threats of violence or suspicious activity to law enforcement.”
Anyone with leads on threats or suspected criminal activity can report it through tips.fbi.gov or contact their local FBI field office.
