DHS shutdown could hinder U.S. terror response amid Iran conflict, experts warn
The partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security could impair the federal government’s ability to respond to terror threats in the United States, according to public safety experts. The ongoing conflict with Iran has heightened the risk of attacks, they warn.
Jeffrey Halstead, a retired police chief in Fort Worth and former Homeland Security commander for Phoenix police, told Fox News Digital that military actions overseas could embolden terrorist groups. He said that tensions in the Middle East often impact U.S. intelligence sharing and coordination.
Halstead noted that with DHS components like FEMA effectively shut down, delays in threat assessment and response could occur if an incident happens in the U.S. He cited an Austin shooting over the weekend, which left two dead and 14 injured, as an example. Authorities are investigating the incident as a potential terror-related attack, noting the suspect’s attire and recovered items suggest possible links to Iran.
The attack came shortly after U.S.-Israeli military strikes against Iran, which reportedly killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and other officials, escalating tensions in the region. Halstead warned that upcoming events like the World Cup and the U.S. 250th anniversary could make the U.S. a higher-profile target if hostilities continue.
He emphasized that government shutdowns distract federal agencies and reduce staffing, hindering critical intelligence operations. “This will delay and possibly impede some of that critical intelligence,” Halstead said. “That could be very, very catastrophic if the information is ignored or not sent.”
While Halstead said he has no evidence linking the Austin shooting directly to the shutdown, he pointed out that overseas military actions often influence lone wolf actors within the U.S. The suspect in Austin reportedly wore a shirt referencing Allah and displayed symbols that suggest possible radical ties, he added.
Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem told Fox News Digital she is coordinating with law enforcement to monitor threats. Meanwhile, political debates over funding continue. Democratic senators argue DHS has sufficient funds from prior legislation, while Republicans stress the need for continued support amid ongoing conflicts.
Halstead described the shutdown impasse as typical of partisan infighting, which could further weaken national security. “This is probably some of the worst infighting I think I’ve seen in almost 40 years,” he said.
Source: Original Article
