UPDATE: Federal authorities have issued an urgent warning that Iran may retaliate against the U.S. using sleeper cells, lone wolf sympathizers, and cyberattacks. As tensions escalate following the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on February 28, 2024, concerns for American safety surge.
With U.S. and Israeli forces conducting offensive strikes on Iran, counterterrorism experts are on high alert. A memo from the FBI to local law enforcement agencies highlights the possibility of “operational triggers” for sleeper cells potentially already on U.S. soil. Authorities detected cryptic messages broadcast globally on a new shortwave radio frequency, warning that these could be intended for “clandestine recipients” holding an encryption key.
Former LAPD counterterrorism chief Horace Frank stated, “Sleeper cells have always been a concern with Iranian proxies. Given the current situation, some of their proxies are feeling a lot more desperate.” Although there is no specific credible threat identified, the Department of Homeland Security has increased alert levels.
The FBI has been on heightened alert since Operation Epic Fury began, underscoring that “Iran relies on individuals with pre-existing access to the United States for surveillance and lethal plotting.” The agency is particularly cautious as Iran has previously attempted to hire assassins to target U.S. officials, including former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and former National Security Advisor John Bolton.
In a recent case, Asif Raza Merchant was convicted for a 2024 murder-for-hire plot targeting President Trump and others. Merchant, trained by the IRGC, attempted to recruit hitmen for a series of violent acts but was thwarted by federal agents posing as assassins.
Adding to the urgency, counterterrorism analysts are investigating a violent incident involving Ndiaga Diagne, who killed three people in Austin, Texas, shortly after Khamenei’s death. Investigators are exploring the possibility of a “nexus to terrorism” in this case.
The threat extends beyond individuals. Experts warn of Iranian proxies, including militants linked to Hezbollah and the Houthi movement, which may exploit the current geopolitical climate. A recent Rand Corporation report found Hezbollah has a significant presence in Latin America, raising concerns about their potential operational capacity in the U.S.
Surveillance at the border has intensified, with reports indicating that thousands of Iranian nationals have entered the U.S. illegally in recent years. Notably, two Iranian nationals on a U.S. security watch list were apprehended at the Texas-Mexico border in 2023, heightening security concerns.
Cybersecurity threats from Iran are also a major focus. Iranian-backed hackers have increasingly targeted U.S. infrastructure, particularly water supply systems. However, following the strikes on February 28, Iran’s internet connectivity reportedly dropped to between 1% and 4%, indicating a potential disruption in their operational capabilities.
As authorities remain vigilant, Chief Jim McDonnell of the LAPD emphasized the importance of public cooperation. “The eyes and ears of the public often deliver the vital tip,” he noted. With over 700,000 Iranian-Americans in Southern California, awareness levels are heightened, and community vigilance is crucial.
As the situation unfolds, local law enforcement agencies are advised to remain on high alert for any unusual activity, particularly related to potential sleeper cells or lone wolf attacks. The evolving landscape of threats underscores the necessity for immediate action and vigilance across the nation.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
