Following reports that 729 Iranian nationals illegally entered the U.S., experts are cautioning that sanctuary jurisdictions may be the most vulnerable targets for Iranian retaliation. The Biden administration’s release of these individuals, despite known terrorism risks, has raised concerns about potential sleeper cells and attacks. Law enforcement cooperation is deemed essential to mitigate the threat, with hospitals highlighted as soft targets.
The number of Iranians released by Border Patrol under Biden surged each year of his administration. Of 1,504 arrested, 729 were released, raising fears of unknown ‘gotaways’ in the U.S. Experts warn that sanctuary cities, where federal immigration enforcement is obstructed, are particularly vulnerable. Former FBI officials and immigration experts emphasize the need for collaboration to prevent attacks.
The DHS has issued warnings of a heightened threat environment following the U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear sites. Officials fear Iranian leadership might issue rulings for retaliatory violence, increasing the likelihood of domestic terror attacks. A former FBI director warned that open borders under Biden could aid Iran in forming sleeper cells. The concern is heightened in cities like Los Angeles, where policies actively obstruct deportation efforts.
Andrew Arthur, an immigration policy expert, highlighted hospitals as the ‘ultimate soft target’ for terror attacks, citing Iran’s bombing of a hospital in Israel as evidence. He stressed the importance of federal, state, and local agencies working together to monitor and respond to threats. However, current cooperation issues, particularly in California under SB-54, are seen as compounding the risk.
Other potential targets include areas like the National Mall, Times Square, or Independence Hall, which are highly populated and open. While an attack would likely be a ‘suicidal move’ for Iran, experts warn of a ‘real concern’ about domestic terrorism. Trump’s recent social media statement about a ceasefire between Israel and Iran did not alleviate fears, underscoring ongoing tensions and potential threats.