FBI Chief Warns Of Potential Hamas-Inspired Terrorist Attack In US: 'The Ongoing War...Has Raised The Threat Of An Attack'

FBI Director Christopher Wray expressed increasing concerns about the threat of terror attacks in the United States inspired by recent Hamas activities in Israel.

What Happened: In his address to Congress on Tuesday, Wray warned of possible threats akin to those previously presented by ISIS, in light of the recent Israel-Hamas war, CBS News reported.

“We assess that the actions of Hamas and its allies will serve as an inspiration, the likes of which we haven’t seen since ISIS launched its so-called caliphate several years ago. In just the past few weeks, multiple foreign terrorist organizations have called for attacks against Americans and the West,” Wray said.

“The reality is that the terrorism threat has been elevated throughout 2023, but the ongoing war in the Middle East has raised the threat of an attack against Americans in the United States to a whole ‘nother level,” he added.

While Wray acknowledged there is currently no concrete evidence hinting at Hamas planning attacks on U.S. soil, he emphasized that such a possibility cannot be ruled out. “It is a time to be concerned. We are in a dangerous period.”

“This is not a time for panic,” he said, adding, “But it is a time for vigilance.”

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“We have no information to indicate that Hamas has the intent or capability to conduct operations inside the US, though we cannot, and do not, discount that possibility,” Wray said.

He also pointed out the potential danger from Iran and Hezbollah in the form of both cyber and kinetic attacks. Wray also drew attention to recent calls to action made by ISIS and al Qaeda.

Why It Matters: Earlier this month, the government issued warnings of potential attacks in the U.S. linked to the Israel-Hamas conflict. The warning was primarily aimed at individuals and institutions associated with the conflict.

Wray detailed the current threat level as reaching “historic levels”. He noted escalating threats against Jewish, Muslim, and Arab communities in recent times. He also disclosed the recent arrest of a Houston man who was found researching bomb-making techniques and advocating online for the killing of Jews.

Meanwhile, military veterans warned that Israel's aspiration to neutralize Hamas by taking a novel approach risks prolonging the conflict. Amir Avivi, a former brigadier general, estimates that ousting Hamas from Gaza could take over a year.

Photo by Casimiro PT on Shutterstock

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