The United States has entered a heightened threat environment following American B-2 bomber strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. Security officials are particularly concerned about potential cyber attacks from pro-Iranian hacktivists, possible violent extremist mobilization within the U.S., and heightened risks to institutions across the nation. What can the U.S. expect from Iran’s promised retaliation?
Strikes Prompt Domestic Security Alert
The U.S. military conducted decisive strikes against Iranian nuclear facilities, hitting targets at Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan with B-2 stealth bombers. President Trump characterized the operation as a “spectacular military success” while warning Iran against retaliation during an address from the White House.
The National Terrorism Advisory System responded by issuing a bulletin warning of a significantly heightened threat environment within the United States following the military action. This advisory highlights concerns about potential low-level cyber attacks, violent extremist mobilization, and possible hate crimes targeting certain communities.
🚨🇺🇸 U.S. TERROR ALERT: IRAN CONFLICT SPARKS HOMELAND WARNING
The Dept. of Homeland Security says the Iran-Israel war is now a domestic threat, warning of cyberattacks and possible lone-wolf violence in the U.S.
Iranian hackers, both state-backed and fanboys with WiFi, are… https://t.co/oG8rKROX1a pic.twitter.com/JAHgctIxgq
— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) June 22, 2025
Historical Context and Current Risks
U.S. law enforcement agencies have already disrupted multiple Iranian-backed plots within American borders since 2020, demonstrating Tehran’s willingness to target U.S. interests directly. Intelligence analysts prepared the current terrorism bulletin in anticipation of conflict escalation, noting that Iranian calls for retaliation could increase the likelihood of independent violent mobilization within the United States.
The ongoing Israel-Iran conflict serves as a backdrop for these heightened tensions, with officials particularly concerned about potential impacts on Jewish communities. The Department of Homeland Security took the unusual step of sharing the bulletin publicly to inform citizens about both the threats and available safety resources.
The conflict in the Middle East has become the center of global attention.
Resources and focus are now directed there, diverting attention from other crucial issues — especially the war in Ukraine.The escalation of this conflict may have unpredictable consequences:
◾️ It could… https://t.co/dysJm2AMJJ
— Anton Gerashchenko (@Gerashchenko_en) June 22, 2025
Global Reactions and Security Measures
International responses to the U.S. strikes have fallen along predictable geopolitical lines, with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu praising the action as demonstrating “peace through strength.” In contrast, Russia condemned the operation as “irresponsible” and a violation of international law, while U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres called for de-escalation and diplomacy.
Domestic security agencies are taking concrete steps to protect potential targets, with the New York Police Department deploying additional resources to key sites throughout the city. The NYPD statement confirmed close coordination with federal partners and ongoing monitoring for any developments that could impact security in America’s largest city.
Iranian government officials have declared the United States complicit in what they describe as aggression, promising some form of retaliation. Hamas and the Houthis, Iran’s regional allies, have similarly condemned the U.S. strikes and pledged solidarity with Tehran, raising concerns about a widening conflict with multiple potential fronts.