Iranian sleeper cells may target US amid retaliation threat, experts warn

As tensions between the United States and Iran continue to escalate, experts are warning of the potential for terror proxies to leverage new-age methods to create chaos within the U.S. Following strikes on Iran’s key nuclear sites by U.S. forces, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued a National Terrorism Advisory System Bulletin, highlighting the heightened risk of domestic terrorism from Iranian-backed or domestic attackers.

Sleeper cells, which are groups planted within a country by a foreign government with the goal of carrying out a terror attack or politically motivated violence, are a major concern for U.S. officials. Barak Seener, a senior fellow at the Henry Jackson Society, notes that terror organizations like Hezbollah and Hamas have been significantly degraded due to depleted funding and resources, leaving Iran to potentially rely on sleeper cells to carry out its agenda on U.S. soil.

The possibility of Iranian operatives infiltrating anti-Israel campus protests and using cyber warfare to launch disinformation campaigns on social media is also a cause for concern. With the Biden administration’s previous open border policies, there is a heightened risk of foreign operatives entering the country undetected.

Paul Mauro, a retired NYPD executive officer, warns of the potential for individuals radicalized by the Iranian regime to carry out attacks on U.S. soil. He emphasizes the need for heightened security measures and vigilance, particularly in response to ongoing anti-Israel protests on college campuses.

While traditional Iranian tactics have not typically included propaganda and social media manipulation, Mauro acknowledges that the digital landscape has changed, allowing for new strategies to be employed. The possibility of terror groups collaborating to target a common enemy is also a concern, as America faces increasing unrest and vulnerability.

As law enforcement agencies across the country remain on high alert, it is crucial for individuals to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. The threat of Iranian retaliation and the potential for terror proxies to carry out attacks on U.S. soil underscore the need for heightened security measures and proactive monitoring of potential threats.

The bulletin released by DHS serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of rogue regimes like Iran, which operate outside the norms of Western democracies. As tensions between the U.S. and Iran continue to rise, it is imperative for the U.S. to be prepared for any potential threats and to remain united in the face of adversity.