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US Officials Could Be Targeted by Iran, DHS Bulletin Warns
A new Department of Homeland Security (DHS) bulletin warns that Iranian leaders may target US government officials if they believe their regime’s stability is threatened. The June 22nd bulletin, distributed to state and local law enforcement, also cites potential Iranian retaliation if Tehran believes US officials were involved in the deaths of Iranian leaders or if US airstrikes continue.
While the bulletin doesn’t detail what form such targeting might take, it comes amidst heightened tensions between the US and Iran, including recent missile strikes by Iran towards a US base in Qatar. The DHS bulletin connects potential Iranian backlash with President Trump’s decision to bomb Iranian nuclear sites.
“It is our duty to keep the nation safe and informed, especially during times of conflict,” stated Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. She highlighted the potential for increased threats to the homeland, including cyberattacks, acts of violence, and antisemitic hate crimes, stemming from the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict.
The bulletin acknowledges that Tehran hasn’t directly threatened such retaliatory action in response to the recent US airstrikes. It also notes that recent law enforcement actions could hinder Iran’s ability to execute a plot against US officials in the near future.
This warning follows President Trump’s recent social media post raising the question of regime change in Iran, a comment downplayed by White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt as simply a question. Last year, intelligence about an Iranian threat against then-candidate Trump prompted increased Secret Service protection.
The DHS bulletin reinforces a previous public warning about a heightened threat environment in the US. It emphasizes the possibility of low-level cyberattacks and continued potential for lone-wolf attacks.
Law enforcement officials have also been re-examining known or suspected Hezbollah associates in the US for potential threats. The bulletin expresses particular concern about Iran-aligned hacktivist cyberattacks and potential attacks against critical infrastructure within the US.