Intelligence Community Responding to Possible ISIS Inspired Attack Within U.S.
ISIS has warned us repeatedly that it has plans to target the U.S. Yet, this is the first time the U.S. intelligence community has acted on what it perceives to be a credible threat.
Two separate federal agencies now reportedly have information indicating that an ISIS attack within the United States may be imminent, and both agencies have responded with increased intercept and deterrent efforts.
The FBI has launched an investigation into a possible planned ISIS terror strike based upon intercepted chatter and intelligence information.
CNN reports:
“The investigation originated from intercepted chatter and other intelligence information that led officials to believe a possible plot could be in the works, the officials said.
No arrests have been made. It’s not clear whether the threat is real or aspirational.
The exact nature of the threat couldn’t be learned. One official said it focused on parts of California where officials stepped up security, a U.S. official said.”
TSA has also issued a classified warning relating to an attack by ISIS at an unnamed and likely unknown location within our borders.
CNN also reports:
“The Transportation Security Administration alerted local law enforcement agencies that are responsible for external security around airports, but officials said the possible threat is not necessarily aviation-related.
Some cities around the United States have increased their security as a precaution.
A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson declined Saturday to talk about specifics, but spoke about security measures in general.
‘Over the last few months, we have made a number of security adjustments, including enhanced screening at select overseas airports and increasing random searches of passengers and carry-on luggage on flights inbound to the U.S., reflecting an evolving threat picture,’ the spokesman said.
He said the DHS added layers of security to the Electronic System for Travel Authorization. ETSA is an online application system to screen travelers before they are allow to board an airplane or ship bound for the United States.
In February, a more visible law enforcement presence was put in place at federal facilities, he said.
‘The department has conducted significant outreach efforts … with state and local law enforcement partners regarding these trends and engaging in a series of meetings and events with local community leaders across the country to counter violent extremism,’ he said.”
The TSA classified warning was issued Friday. The FBI investigation was confirmed Saturday.
