Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem has released a National Terrorism Advisory System (NTAS) Bulletin warning of an elevated threat environment throughout the United States due to the nation’s direct involvement in the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. While there are currently no verified, specific, or credible threats aimed at the US homeland, officials are urging vigilance as tensions continue to rise in the Middle East.
Secretary Noem emphasized the government’s responsibility to ensure public safety during these volatile times. “It is our duty to keep the nation safe and informed, especially during times of conflict,” she stated. Highlighting the dangers associated with the unfolding Israel-Iran confrontation, she added, “The ongoing Israel-Iran conflict brings the possibility of increased threat to the homeland in the form of possible cyberattacks, acts of violence, and antisemitic hate crimes.”
The advisory went into effect on June 22, 2025, and is set to expire on September 22, 2025, at 11:59 PM ET. Authorities are encouraging citizens to promptly report any suspicious activities or potential threats to local police, FBI Field Offices, or the nearest Fusion Center. In emergencies, individuals should contact 911.
The Department of Homeland Security’s bulletin highlights several key concerns contributing to the elevated risk. One of the primary dangers involves the likelihood of cyber intrusions targeting American infrastructure. These attacks may come from pro-Iranian hacktivists or individuals and groups with direct affiliations to the Iranian government. Their typical targets are unsecured American networks and internet-connected devices.
The Department also raised concerns about Iran’s historical commitment to retaliate against American officials deemed responsible for the death of Qassem Soleimani, the high-ranking Iranian military commander killed in a US airstrike in January 2020. This long-standing objective has remained an active element of Iranian foreign policy and intelligence operations, suggesting potential threats to US leadership or government infrastructure.
In addition to cyber threats, there is a growing fear of physical acts of violence within the United States. The bulletin mentions that if Iran’s leaders issue a religious decree urging retaliation against US targets, it could significantly increase the probability that individuals loyal to the Iranian regime might resort to violence on American soil. Such a ruling might inspire lone actors to conduct attacks, even without direct orders or links to foreign terrorist organizations.
Past incidents also play a role in shaping this alert. The bulletin recalls that since 2020, US law enforcement has managed to prevent several potentially deadly plots backed by Iran. Additionally, attempts by the Iranian regime to eliminate critics of the government residing within the United States have been thwarted. These failed operations underscore the ongoing intent and capability of Iran to pursue its enemies, even within foreign borders.
Another concerning element cited in the bulletin is the pattern of anti-Semitic and anti-Israel sentiment motivating previous terrorist attacks within the United States. The ongoing strife between Israel and Iran could further inflame such hostility, potentially triggering more attacks carried out by individuals influenced by extremist ideologies. The Department warns that the current environment could serve as a catalyst for those looking to act on their hatred against the Jewish community, pro-Israel supporters, or American governmental and military symbols.
Foreign terrorist organizations have also responded vocally to the Israel-Iran conflict. Groups such as HAMAS, Lebanese Hizballah, the Houthis, and the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine have issued media statements since the beginning of the confrontation. Some of these statements have explicitly called for violence against US personnel and facilities located in the Middle East, presenting yet another layer of threat to American interests abroad.
Domestically, there is concern that such international calls for action could inspire violent extremists and hate crime offenders to target Jewish institutions, synagogues, community centers, pro-Israel events, or even federal buildings and personnel. The Department emphasized that any individual or group associated, or even perceived to be associated, with these entities might be at risk of becoming a target.
In addition to issuing warnings, the Department of Homeland Security has provided resources and guidance to help the public stay safe. Authorities encourage the public to remain attentive to instructions and updates from local officials and emergency personnel.
On the cybersecurity front, the Department’s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) continues to offer guidance and tools for bolstering the defenses of US digital infrastructure. This includes practical steps for securing networks, identifying vulnerabilities, and preparing organizations for possible cyberattacks.
For those who witness any suspicious behavior or encounter potential threats—whether physical or digital—the DHS encourages reporting through the Nationwide Suspicious Activity Reporting (SAR) Initiative. This collaboration between DHS, the FBI, and local law enforcement aims to detect and prevent terrorism and other criminal activity before it escalates. The campaign reiterates its familiar slogan: “If You See Something, Say Something®.” Authorities urge the public to promptly report suspicious activity or threats of violence—including those made online—directly to local law enforcement, the FBI, or a Fusion Center.
As tensions in the Middle East continue to escalate, US officials remain alert to the possibility that these international hostilities could spill over into the homeland in the form of cyber disruptions, ideological violence, or targeted hate crimes. Although there are no immediate threats at this time, the government stresses the importance of public awareness and cooperation.
The current NTAS Bulletin is part of the Department’s broader efforts to prepare Americans for emerging threats while reassuring them that law enforcement and national security agencies are actively monitoring the situation. By staying informed and vigilant, officials hope to reduce the chances of any planned attacks succeeding.
The alert concludes by reminding citizens that while the threat level has risen due to international conflict, prompt action, public cooperation, and intelligence sharing can help prevent incidents and maintain safety across the country. The government is urging all individuals and communities to take part in safeguarding the homeland by remaining observant, proactive, and informed.
The NTAS Bulletin will remain in effect until September 22, 2025. Until then, local, state, and federal agencies will continue to evaluate and respond to developments both at home and abroad to ensure the continued safety of the American people.
