The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has reissued its National Terrorism Advisory System (NTAS) Bulletin, stating that the country remains in a heightened threat environment.
.@SecMayorkas released a new National Terrorism Advisory System (NTAS) Bulletin. Here are five things you need to know about the Bulletin, including what it means for your safety, and what you can do to keep your community safe. pic.twitter.com/qJPeUnIiUB
— Homeland Security (@DHSgov) May 24, 2023
The bulletin states that “Lone offenders and small groups motivated by a range of ideological beliefs and personal grievances continue to pose a persistent and lethal threat to the Homeland. Both domestic violent extremists (DVEs) and those associated with foreign terrorist organizations continue to attempt to motivate supporters to conduct attacks in the Homeland, including through violent extremist messaging and online calls for violence.”
It highlighted that the “2024 general election cycle and legislative or judicial decisions pertaining to sociopolitical issues” may be “factors that could mobilize individuals to commit violence.”
The bulletin says that likely targets of attacks include:
- US critical infrastructure
- Faith-based institutions
- Individuals or events associated with the LGBTQIA+ community
- Schools
- Racial and ethnic minorities
- Government facilities and personnel, including law enforcement.
NEW: @SecMayorkas issued a National Terrorism Advisory System Bulletin?regarding the continued heightened?threat environment across the US. Lone offenders & small groups motivated by a range of ideological beliefs & personal grievances continue to pose a persistent threat (1/2) pic.twitter.com/TPs7Uxd5B2
— Homeland Security (@DHSgov) May 24, 2023
DHS stated that it is not aware of a specific, credible threat against the country, however, “in the current threat environment, threat actors can mobilize to violence with little-to-no warning.”
DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas tweeted out that “Recent tragic events highlight the continued heightened threat environment our nation faces, and these threats are driven by violent extremists who seek to further their ideological beliefs.”
“We are working with partners across government, the private sector, & in local communities to keep Americans safe. We will continue to share information & intelligence, equip communities with training & resources, & fund security enhancement & prevention efforts,” he added.
