As tensions between the United States and Iran continue to rise, several Republican lawmakers are warning Americans to remain alert to potential national security risks.
According to Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), the possibility of international terrorist activity targeting the United States could now be at its highest level in many years. The warning comes as the conflict involving Iran moves deeper into its second week and global tensions continue to grow.
During an interview Wednesday night on Fox News with host Sean Hannity, Cruz pointed to what he described as years of weak border security policies that may have created vulnerabilities inside the United States.
“We had four years where the southern border was essentially wide open,” Cruz said. “Millions of people crossed into the country during that time. That situation created opportunities for bad actors, including individuals connected to terrorist organizations.”
Cruz specifically referenced groups such as Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, arguing that stronger border enforcement is essential to protecting Americans.
FBI Alert Raises New Questions About Potential Threats
Cruz’s warning came shortly after reports surfaced that the FBI had recently notified law enforcement agencies in California about a potential threat scenario involving Iran.
According to reporting by The California Post and other outlets, federal authorities informed local police that Iran had allegedly explored the possibility of launching a drone-style attack against targets inside the United States.
The intelligence warning reportedly suggested that Iranian forces may have considered using unmanned aerial vehicles launched from a vessel positioned off the U.S. coastline, with potential targets located in California.
Officials have emphasized that the information was part of an intelligence alert and did not confirm an active plot. However, the report has increased concern among lawmakers about possible retaliation if tensions between Washington and Tehran continue to escalate.
Lawmakers Voice Concerns About “Sleeper Cells”
Another issue raised by some members of Congress is the possibility that hostile actors could already be inside the United States.
Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) said the possibility of so-called “sleeper cells” — individuals living quietly inside the country who could potentially carry out attacks if activated — cannot be ignored.
“I don’t know what sleeper cells might already be here if they were activated,” Johnson said in a recent interview. “President Trump faced a very difficult decision in confronting Iran. It was a serious and risky decision, but sometimes leadership requires taking difficult steps to protect national security.”
Johnson emphasized that any conflict involving Iran carries risks that extend beyond the Middle East.
Trump Says Government Is Monitoring Potential Risks
President Donald Trump addressed the issue during comments to reporters on Wednesday, confirming that his administration has been closely monitoring intelligence reports related to Iran and other hostile actors.
“I have been briefed on the situation,” Trump said. “A lot of people entered the country during the previous administration’s open border policies, but we know where most of them are.”
The president added that federal law enforcement and intelligence agencies are watching the situation closely.
“We’re keeping a close eye on everything,” Trump said. “Our people are very aware of the potential risks.”
Republicans Continue Backing Military Pressure On Iran
Despite the concerns about retaliation, many Republican lawmakers have expressed strong support for the administration’s military strategy toward Iran.
Cruz has been a vocal supporter of Operation Epic Fury, the campaign targeting Iran’s military leadership and strategic assets.
Cruz added that he expects the Trump administration to maintain pressure on Iran until the regime’s leadership changes direction.
“President Trump is going to continue confronting Iran until there is a government that is not committed to radical Islamist policies and hostility toward the United States,” Cruz said.
Growing Security Focus As Conflict Continues
As the conflict with Iran develops, lawmakers and national security officials say vigilance will remain critical.
While intelligence agencies have not confirmed any imminent threats inside the United States, federal and local authorities are continuing to monitor potential risks connected to the international crisis.
For now, officials say Americans should stay informed as the situation evolves.