Iranian sleeper cells may target rural America, former FBI agent warns
Following the recent strikes on Iranian nuclear sites by the U.S. military, concerns have been raised about the potential threat of Iranian sleeper cells operating within the United States. A National Terrorism Advisory System Bulletin issued by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) warned of a heightened risk for Iranian-backed or domestic terrorism in the wake of the military strikes.
According to counterterrorism expert Jonathan Gilliam, these sleeper cells may be hiding “in plain sight,” with the potential to strike rural areas in America. Gilliam, a former FBI special agent who has worked on terrorism task forces, highlighted the possibility of these cells being present in our communities.
The bulletin issued by DHS also mentioned the potential for violent extremists in the U.S. to mobilize in response to the conflict with Iran. The risk of retaliatory violence against U.S. government officials and targets was also highlighted, given Iran’s history of targeting individuals it deems responsible for previous actions.
One of the key concerns raised by experts is the vulnerability of America’s rural areas to potential attacks by these sleeper cells. Gilliam pointed out that these areas are often not as well-protected as major cities, making them potential targets for terrorist activities.
The recent enforcement efforts by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) have targeted Iranian illegal immigrants in response to the heightened threat level. Over 130 Iranian nationals have been arrested since June 18, with 670 Iranians currently in ICE custody.
Gilliam also raised concerns about the Biden administration’s border policies, which he believes have enabled Iranian illegal immigrants to enter the U.S. unchecked. He emphasized the need for stricter vetting processes to prevent individuals with malicious intent from exploiting the asylum system.
In light of these developments, experts warn that rural areas in America could be at risk of potential attacks by Iranian sleeper cells. Gilliam cautioned that these cells could target outdoor entertainment venues or popular vacation spots in these regions.
As the threat of Iranian-sponsored terrorism looms, it is crucial for law enforcement agencies and security personnel to remain vigilant and take proactive measures to prevent any potential attacks. The safety and security of all Americans must remain a top priority in the face of these evolving threats.
This article was written by Adam Sabes for Fox News Digital. For story tips or inquiries, please contact Adam.Sabes@fox.com or follow him on Twitter @asabes10.
