FBI Warns of Lone Wolf Terrorism Similar to Hamas Attack in the U.S.

Over the weekend, the head of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) warned there was a rising number of terror threats against the United States, particularly over potential lone wolves pulling off Hamas-like attacks here on U.S. soil.

Director Christopher Wray urged law enforcement to be cautious about ripple effects from the raging Israeli-Hamas conflict during an address at the International Association of Chiefs of Police annual conference in San Diego on Saturday.

"History has been witness to antisemitic and other forms of violent extremism for far too long," he said. "We remain committed to continue confronting those threats."

"In this heightened environment, there's no question we're seeing an increase in reported threats, and we've got to be on the lookout, especially for lone actors who may take inspiration from recent events to commit violence of their own," he added.

Wray's warning came a day after former Hamas chief Khaled Meshaal designated a "Day of Jihad" last Friday, October 13, 2023. The FBI director did not reveal specific domestic threats the bureau was engaged in but issued a broad warning.

He also implored law enforcement officials to keep up intelligence sharing and collaboration.

"I'd also ask you to continue sharing any intelligence or observations you may have," Wray said. "On our end, we're committed to doing the same, so that together, we can safeguard our communities."

According to reports by the U.S. State Department, 30 Americans have been killed by Hamas terrorists following the brutal attack last week. While the Biden administration has stated that it seeks to obtain the release of the hostages, Hamas terrorists have threatened to execute American and Israeli civilians held hostage.

As Hamas continues to escalate the conflict and Israel prepares to enter the Gaza Strip, the Islamic Republic of Iran has announced its intentions to assist Hamas and use its proxies in Lebanon, Syria, and elsewhere to attack Israel.