Worthy Christian News > US News > Dept of Homeland Security classifies US as “heightened threat environment:” faith-based institutions and minorities among vulnerable groups

Dept of Homeland Security classifies US as “heightened threat environment:” faith-based institutions and minorities among vulnerable groups

by Karen Faulkner, Worthy News Correspondent

(Worthy News) – The US Department of Homeland Security issued a bulletin last week announcing that, ahead of the 2024 general election cycle, the United States “remains in a heightened threat environment” as individuals and groups motivated by a range of diverse beliefs and grievances present a “persistent and lethal threat” to the country.

In its May 24 National Terrorism Advisory System bulletin, the DHS stated that “faith-based institutions, individuals or events associated with the LGBTQIA+ community, schools, racial and ethnic minorities, and government facilities and personnel, including law enforcement,” are vulnerable to attacks.

The bulletin listed recent mass shootings, incitement to violence, and foiled attacks as reasons to believe the US is in a heightened threat environment.

“In May 2023, a now-deceased individual killed eight and injured seven others at an outlet mall in Allen, Texas,” the first item on the list reads.

“In March 2023, a now-deceased individual shot and killed six people at a Christian elementary school in Nashville, Tennessee,” the second item on the list reads.

“Lone offenders and small groups motivated by a range of ideological beliefs and personal grievances continue to pose a persistent and lethal threat to the Homeland,” the bulletin attests.

“Both domestic violent extremists (DVEs) and those associated with foreign terrorist organizations continue to attempt to motivate supporters to conduct attacks in the homeland, including through violent extremist messaging and online calls for violence.”

The May 24 National Terrorism Advisory System bulletin will remain in place until November 24.