The Department of Homeland Security said Tuesday afternoon it does not know of any specific plots by terrorist groups against the U.S., but the agency remains “concerned” about lone wolf attacks on American soil.
“We remain very focused on the threat posed by lone terrorist actors who may lack direct connection to a foreign terrorist organization; we are concerned that such radicalized individuals or small groups could carry out an attack in the homeland with little warning,” DHS Secretary Jeh Johnson wrote.
Johnson reiterated comments President Obama made earlier in the day condemning the terrorists behind the attacks that killed 34 people, and he pledged to help Belgian authorities find those responsible. The Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the bombings at Brussels’ international airport and its metro system.
DHS said it will partner with federal law enforcement and intelligence officials to monitor the situation in Brussels and ensure the safety of Americans.
Belgian officials will continue to share information about the suspects with Homeland Security. Johnson said the process initially was enhanced following November’s terrorist attacks in Paris and will continue after Tuesday’s attacks.
The Transportation Security Administration and U.S. Customs and Border Protection will take extra precautions when scanning incoming Belgian citizens, the Department of Homeland Security said.
TSA has deployed additional personnel and resources to transportation hubs in major U.S. cities, including airports, rail and transit stations.
DHS also will implement a number of additional security measures that officials are not disclosing to the public for security purposes.
