US Strikes Iran: Are Sleeper Cells the Next Threat?
Following reported US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, security experts are raising concerns about potential retaliatory actions, including the activation of Iranian-backed sleeper cells within the United States. The strikes, reportedly targeting sites like Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan, are said to have significantly hampered Iran's nuclear ambitions.
According to reports, the operation, codenamed Midnight Hammer, involved a large number of US military aircraft and precision-guided weapons. The Fordo site, a deeply buried nuclear enrichment facility, was reportedly hit with GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrators, also known as "bunker buster" bombs.
Heightened Alert in the US
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued a bulletin warning of a "heightened threat environment" in the United States, although the bulletin doesn't cite specific threats. This comes amid threats of retaliation from Iranian officials.
Michael Balboni, former Homeland Security advisor for New York state, has cautioned against the possibility of sleeper cells within the United States following the strikes. He and other experts are expressing concern that Iran, facing setbacks in its nuclear program, might revert to terrorism as a retaliatory tactic. There is further concern that current border policies could exacerbate the threat of terror cells operating within the US.
What are Sleeper Cells?
Sleeper cells are groups of covert operatives who remain inactive within a target country, awaiting instructions to carry out attacks or other disruptive activities. They often blend into the population and maintain a low profile to avoid detection.
- Covert Operations: Sleeper cells operate in secrecy, making them difficult to detect.
- Delayed Activation: They remain inactive for extended periods, sometimes years, before being activated.
- Potential for Harm: Once activated, they can pose a significant threat to national security.
The possibility of sleeper cell activity within the US underscores the importance of vigilance and proactive security measures.