Jeh Johnson warns of heightened terrorist threats in the U.S
- Jeh Johnson discussed an evolving and heightened terrorist threat picture in the U.S.
- He noted a shift from terrorist-directed attacks to terrorist-inspired attacks.
- Johnson emphasized the need for proactive security measures to anticipate future threats.
On January 2, 2025, Jeh Johnson, the former Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security under President Barack Obama, appeared on Fox News' "Fox & Friends" to highlight growing concerns regarding terrorism in the United States. He articulated that the nation is facing an evolving and heightened threat picture, attributing this increased risk to a number of factors, including the collapse of the Assad regime in Syria and recent attacks that he believes might have emboldened ISIS. Johnson pointed out that significant security events are on the horizon, specifically mentioning the upcoming presidential inauguration and the Super Bowl, which occur in close succession. Johnson explained the evolution of the terrorist threat, noting a shift from terrorist-directed attacks, like the September 11 attacks, to what he referred to as terrorist-inspired attacks. These involve individuals influenced or motivated by terrorist organizations, often through online propaganda, rather than being directly directed by them. According to Johnson, such threats have been prevalent since around 2013 and have not diminished. He expressed concern that these types of attacks are at a heightened level, emphasizing the importance of not only responding to past incidents but also anticipating future threats of varied natures. The former DHS Secretary underscored a crucial point regarding the volatility and changeability of terrorist threats, urging intelligence and law enforcement agencies to maintain vigilance. With the recent events shaping the extremist narrative and the heightened risks associated with significant public events, Johnson warned against complacency in security measures. He pointed to the importance of proactive strategies that address emerging threats, particularly in light of current intelligence that suggests a growing propensity for attacks inspired through social media and internet platforms. Johnson's warning serves to remind both the public and authorities of the dynamic nature of the terrorist threat landscape that requires constant adaptation and preparedness. The upcoming major events, including high-profile gatherings, present vulnerable targets that could attract malicious actors looking to exploit weaknesses in security frameworks. As the nation braces for these occasions, it is imperative to acknowledge the ongoing developments that have led to this heightened alert and the measures needed to safeguard the public effectively.