DHS Issues Advisory Amid Rising Threats Following Military Action Against Iran
In response to recent U.S. military operations targeting Iranian nuclear facilities, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued a new bulletin highlighting a “heightened threat environment” across the nation. As reported on Sunday, June 22, 2025, the document does not specify any immediate threats but emphasizes a potential rise in cyberattacks and other forms of violence linked to factions supportive of Iran.
Key Insights from the DHS Bulletin
While the bulletin, acquired by CBS News, noted a lack of concrete threats, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem stressed, “It is our duty to keep the nation safe and informed, especially during times of conflict.” Noem acknowledged that the ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran could heighten risks of cyber and physical attacks.
The bulletin warns of an increased likelihood that pro-Iranian hacktivists might engage in low-level cyber operations against U.S. networks. Furthermore, it cautions that state-affiliated Iranian cyber actors may also target U.S. infrastructure.
Context and Background of the Recent Strikes
The military strikes carried out on Saturday evening against three key Iranian nuclear sites were framed by President Trump as essential for curtailing what he termed “the nuclear threat posed by the world’s number one state sponsor of terror.” In his remarks at the White House, Trump urged Iran to abstain from retaliatory actions and to pursue peaceful resolutions regarding its conflict with Israel.
Since the initiation of hostilities on June 13, with Israeli airstrikes targeting Iranian locations, over 650 people have reportedly died in Iran, joined by at least 24 fatalities in Israel due to Iran’s retaliatory measures. The conflict’s escalation parallels ongoing violence in Gaza involving Israel and Hamas.
Domestic and International Precautions
The advisory from DHS included alerts regarding potential extremists who might respond violently to developments in the Israel-Iran conflict. Notably, the bulletin mentioned that Iranian leadership could issue calls for retaliatory violence, potentially leading to independent violent acts within the United States.
Law enforcement agencies particularly emphasized lessons learned from previous incidents, citing multiple thwarted Iranian-linked plots since 2020. As a precaution, law enforcement in cities such as New York has ramped up security at Jewish institutions and other vulnerable sites, reflecting heightened vigilance in light of the current geopolitical climate.
The NYPD announced via Twitter: “We’re tracking the situation unfolding in Iran. Out of an abundance of caution, we’re deploying additional resources to religious, cultural, and diplomatic sites across NYC.”
State Department Travel Advisory
In addition to domestic alerts, the U.S. State Department has issued a global advisory for American citizens traveling abroad. This advisory signifies an increased risk for potential protests or backlash against U.S. nationals in light of military actions against Iran. Travelers are urged to exercise heightened caution and to review specific country information prior to any travel plans.
Potential Impact of the Conflict
- Increased risk of cyberattacks by pro-Iranian groups.
- Possible violent actions linked to extremist perceptions of U.S. involvement.
- Federal cautiousness reflected by enhanced police presence at sensitive locations.
Recent Incident Statistics
| Incident | Deaths | Wounded |
|---|---|---|
| Iran since June 13 strikes | 650+ | 2000+ |
| Israel in Iranian retaliation | 24+ | Hundreds |
