Iranian Sleeper Cells: US Attack Targets & Blame Revealed
- remains vulnerable too terrorist attacks from pro-Iran militants,potentially including sleeper cells that entered the country during periods of increased border crossings.
- Swecker said the threat ranges from individual attacks to mass-casualty events, even without direct orders from Hezbollah or Iran.
- Swecker told the Daily Mail that he believes there is a clear and present danger and the greatest terrorist threat in the post-9/11 era.
A former FBI official has issued a stark warning: Iranian sleeper cells, possibly infiltrating teh U.S. through open borders, pose a notable terrorist threat. The official, Chris Swecker, highlights that these operatives, perhaps affiliated with groups like Hezbollah, could launch attacks independently, even without direct orders. This alarming assessment comes amidst a ceasefire,yet the risk from Iran-linked groups and radicalized individuals remains high. Discover how intelligence agencies are responding to the potential for attacks, and ensure you stay informed with News Directory 3. Learn about the key vulnerabilities and what steps are being taken to fortify against potential threats. What critical actions are authorities taking?
Ex-FBI Official Warns of Iran Sleeper Cell Threat in US
Updated June 26, 2025
A former top FBI official is warning that the U.S. remains vulnerable too terrorist attacks from pro-Iran militants,potentially including sleeper cells that entered the country during periods of increased border crossings. Chris Swecker, a former assistant FBI director, believes groups like Hezbollah may have operatives already in place.
Swecker said the threat ranges from individual attacks to mass-casualty events, even without direct orders from Hezbollah or Iran. He emphasized that these operatives could act independently, regardless of any ceasefire agreements.
Swecker told the Daily Mail that he believes there is a clear and present danger and the greatest terrorist threat in the post-9/11 era.
Swecker’s warning comes after President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire between Iran and Israel, ending a 12-day war that included attacks on nuclear facilities and retaliatory missile strikes.
Despite the ceasefire, Swecker said the U.S. must remain vigilant against sleeper cells or radicalized individuals who might act independently, even if such actions don’t align with Iran’s interests.
Swecker noted that Hezbollah and other Iran-linked groups have a history of fundraising and operating within the U.S., potentially using periods of increased border crossings to move operatives into the country.
During his time prosecuting cases in North Carolina in the early 2000s, Swecker said he identified Shiite militia agents in Michigan, Kentucky, and Canada. He fears that more members entered among those who crossed the border undetected.
Swecker said, “It isn’t just the card-carrying memes of sleeper cells we have to be worried about. It’s the true believers who activate themselves.”
He added that a single individual with a weapon or vehicle could inflict significant harm.
Police in New York City and other major cities have increased patrols around sensitive sites due to warnings of a heightened threat environment. New York City Mayor Eric Adams has highlighted the danger posed by lone wolves, while Swecker and others point to Iran-linked groups as a significant concern.
What’s next
Authorities are urging continued vigilance and enhanced security measures to counter potential threats from Iran sleeper cells and radicalized individuals within the U.S.