The FBI has revealed that the bureau has seen an increase in domestic threats since Hamas’ attacks on Israel last weekend.
FBI Director Christopher Wray made the comments while speaking to police in San Diego on Saturday, urging citizens to be vigilant and wary of acts inspired by the Palestinian militant group.
The Trump appointee acknowledged an increase in stateside threats due to a ‘heightened environment’ and called for an increase of alertness.
Wray said the FBI is ‘committed to continuing confronting those threats,’ both domestically and internationally.
He also offered his condolences to Israeli citizens and expressed ‘outrage’ over ‘the sheer brutality and disregard for innocent lives there.’
Wray’s comments came on the same day Israel defense officials said they would commence ‘significant military operations’ in Gaza, after ordering an evacuation for all Palestinians in north Gaza.
The FBI director said in a speech at the International Association of Chiefs of Police conference: “History has been witness to antisemitic and other forms of violent extremism for far too long.
“Whether that be from foreign terrorist organizations, or those inspired by them, or domestic violent extremists motivated by their own racial animus, the targeting of a community because of their faith is totally unacceptable.
“We remain committed to continue confronting those threats – both here in the United States and overseas.”
Wray added: “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.
“And I’d encourage you to stay vigilant, because as the first line of defense in protecting our communities, you’re often the first to see the signs that someone may be mobilizing to violence.”
Wray also asked police to share any intelligence or observations they may have so that “together, we can safeguard our communities.”
The warning came just one day after major cities across the US found themselves with heightened police security due to concerns over demonstrations related to the conflict between Israel and Hamas.
Wray’s remarks deviate from the bureau’s last statement on October 9 that there is no ‘specific and credible intelligence indicating a threat to the United States.’
After a week of fighting and airstrikes in the Middle East, the FBI is ‘closely monitoring unfolding events’ on US soil and will share ‘relevant information’ when applicable.
The FBI said: “We will not hesitate to adjust our security posture, as appropriate, to protect the American people.”
According to the State Department, 29 Americans have died in Israel, with numbers expected to worsen in the coming days.
Over 3,200 people have died on both sides since the fighting began, with thousands more wounded.
President Joe Biden has expressed US support for Israel.
In remarks on Tuesday, Biden said: “In this moment we must be crystal clear. We stand with Israel.
“And we will make sure Israel has what it needs to take care of its citizens, defend itself and respond to this attack.”
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