UPDATE: Federal authorities have issued an urgent warning regarding potential Iranian retaliatory strikes on U.S. soil. With escalating military actions against Iran, officials are on high alert for threats from sleeper cells, lone wolf sympathizers, and cyberattacks.
This alarming development follows the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on February 28, 2024. Authorities have intercepted cryptic messages broadcast on shortwave radio, raising concerns about a possible operational trigger for sleeper agents within the United States. The message, which started with “Tavajjoh! Tavajjoh!”—Persian for ‘attention’, included a series of numbers that may hold encoded significance.
According to a memo reported by ABC News, local law enforcement agencies have been alerted to these preliminary signals, described as likely originating from Iran. Although there is currently no credible specific threat identified, the situation remains precarious.
Former counterterrorism chief Horace Frank emphasized, “Sleeper cells have always been a concern when it comes to Iranians and their proxies.” The FBI and the Department of Homeland Security have been on heightened alert since Operation Epic Fury was initiated, reflecting the serious nature of the threat.
The potential for Iranian operatives to target U.S. officials is not unfounded. The Department of Justice previously charged Shahram Poursafi, an Iranian operative, with attempting to hire assassins to kill former U.S. officials, including Mike Pompeo and John Bolton, for a sum of $300,000. Poursafi remains at large.
In a related case, Asif Raza Merchant was convicted for his role in a 2024 murder-for-hire plot targeting President Trump and other officials, indicating the serious risk posed by Iranian-linked individuals operating within the U.S.
The LAPD has heightened its vigilance, learning from past incidents like the devastating San Bernardino attack in 2015, where a couple inspired by extremist propaganda killed 14 people. Chief Jim McDonnell stated, “We are at a heightened level of awareness,” underscoring the ongoing risk from individuals radicalized online.
Recent reports indicate that Iranian proxies, including groups like Hezbollah, may also pose a threat. A study noted that Hezbollah has established networks in Latin America, heightening concerns about their potential reach into the U.S.
As the situation evolves, authorities are focusing on both physical and cyber threats. Cybersecurity experts warn of increasing Iranian-backed hacking activities aimed at U.S. infrastructure, particularly following the recent military actions. U.S. Cyber Command has been actively disrupting Iranian communications, as internet connectivity in Iran plummeted following strikes.
With over 700,000 individuals of Iranian descent living in Southern California, the local law enforcement is particularly vigilant. The LAPD is partnering with federal agencies to enhance surveillance and intelligence gathering, emphasizing the importance of public awareness in counterterrorism efforts.
As tensions escalate, the threat of Iranian sleeper cells and lone wolf attacks remains a pressing concern. Authorities are urging citizens to remain alert and report any suspicious activities. The coming days will be critical as federal and local agencies monitor potential developments closely.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing situation.
