US Counterterrorism Agencies on High Alert After Iran Airstrikes

Experts warn of potential retaliation from 'sleeper cells' aided by open-border policies

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Counterintelligence experts have warned that terrorist 'sleeper cells' in the US could be gearing up to retaliate for the recent joint US-Israel airstrikes against Iran. While no specific credible threats have been revealed, law enforcement agencies are dedicating resources to thwarting potential revenge attacks on US soil. The warning comes as the US and Israel launched 'Operation Epic Fury', a military campaign that took out multiple senior Iranian officials, including the country's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Why it matters

The threat of retaliation from terrorist 'sleeper cells' in the US highlights ongoing concerns about national security and the potential vulnerabilities created by open-border policies. Counterterrorism agencies are working to stay vigilant and disrupt any potential threats, but the situation underscores the delicate balance between security and civil liberties.

The details

According to former FBI assistant director Chris Swecker, terror 'sleeper cells' in the US are likely plotting revenge for the airstrikes on Iran. Swecker claimed that the open-border policies of the Biden administration have provided an 'open door' for terrorists and their sympathizers to infiltrate the country. Last summer, Customs and Border Protection warned about the increased possibility of terrorist sleeper cells when more than 700 Iranian nationals were allowed to remain in the US after crossing the border illegally in the past four years.

  • On Saturday, the US and Israel launched 'Operation Epic Fury', a military campaign that took out multiple senior Iranian officials, including the country's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
  • Last summer, Customs and Border Protection warned about the increased possibility of terrorist sleeper cells when more than 700 Iranian nationals were allowed to remain in the US after crossing the border illegally in the past four years.

The players

Chris Swecker

A former assistant FBI director who warned that terror 'sleeper cells' in the US are likely plotting revenge for the airstrikes on Iran.

Kash Patel

The FBI Director who said US counterterrorism and intelligence agents were placed on high alert as the 'Operation Epic Fury' campaign kicked off.

Kristi Noem

The Homeland Security Secretary who said she is in direct coordination with federal law enforcement partners to monitor and thwart any potential threats to the homeland.

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What they’re saying

“If ever there's going to be a Hezbollah cell or a Hamas cell act in the United States in a violent way, it's now.”

— Chris Swecker, Former Assistant FBI Director (Fox News)

“Last night, I instructed our Counterterrorism and intelligence teams to be on high alert and mobilize all assisting security assets needed.”

— Kash Patel, FBI Director (X)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.