Homeland Security Committee: ‘Security blunders’ have emboldened terrorists
House Homeland Security Committee Chairman Mark Green, R-Tenn., has raised concerns about the impact of “national security blunders” over the past four years, stating that they have emboldened foreign terrorist organizations (FTOs) and homegrown violent extremism. In response to these threats, the committee has released an updated version of its Terror Threat Snapshot assessment, emphasizing the ongoing dangers posed by homegrown extremists inspired by foreign jihadist networks like ISIS.
The report highlights more than 50 jihadist cases across 30 states between April 2021 and January 2025, including attempts to provide material support to ISIS, Hizballah, and al Qaeda, as well as receiving military-type training from these terrorist organizations. It also details incidents of vehicle ramming attacks, underscoring the evolving nature of the terror threat in the United States.
One particularly chilling example cited in the report is the New Orleans terrorist attack on January 1, 2025, where Texas native and U.S. military veteran Shamsud-Din Jabbar killed 14 civilians by driving a truck through crowds of New Year’s revelers on Bourbon Street. Federal authorities have described this as an ISIS-inspired terrorist attack, highlighting the continued influence of jihadist networks both at home and abroad.
Subcommittee on Counterterrorism and Intelligence Chairman August Pfluger echoed Green’s concerns, emphasizing the need to address the escalating threats posed by ISIS and al Qaeda in various regions. Pfluger stressed the importance of bolstering homeland security efforts in the face of these challenges.
In the aftermath of the New Orleans attack, multiple victims have filed lawsuits against the city, alleging negligence and pointing to security lapses that could have been prevented. The lawsuits highlight the need for improved security measures, including the installation of bollards to prevent vehicle attacks in crowded areas like Bourbon Street.
Despite the tragic events in New Orleans, law enforcement officials are continuing their investigation into the attack and are exploring whether Jabbar had any accomplices. The FBI has revealed that Jabbar had traveled to multiple locations, including Cairo and Toronto, prior to carrying out the attack, underscoring the global reach of extremist ideologies.
As the threat of terrorism continues to evolve, it is essential for policymakers and law enforcement agencies to remain vigilant and proactive in addressing these challenges. The updated Terror Threat Snapshot serves as a reminder of the persistent dangers posed by foreign terrorist organizations and homegrown extremism, urging a coordinated and comprehensive response to safeguard national security.
