FBI Director Christopher Wray will warn lawmakers of a growing fear of a co-ordinated attack inside the US, following an ISIS assault on a concert hall in Moscow which killed 145 people. He will express concern about individuals drawing inspiration from events in the Middle East to carry out attacks at home, as well as the potential for a co-ordinated attack within the United States.
In a recent attack on March 22, four gunmen affiliated with ISIS-K stormed Moscow’s Crocus City Hall, killing at least 145 people and injuring 551. US officials claim to have warned the Kremlin in advance, but Russian officials did not take sufficient action to prevent the attack.
Wray’s warning about the threat environment will coincide with his testimony on the FBI’s fiscal year 2025 budget request. He will mention the elevated threats to public safety and national security and stress the need for continued vigilance in addressing these concerns. Wray has issued similar warnings in the past, particularly following the Hamas terror attack on Oct. 7, 2023, which resulted in the deaths of 1,200 people, including 33 Americans.
The FBI Director will highlight the importance of Congress renewing Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), which is set to expire on April 19. Efforts to pass a rule advancing the renewal of this surveillance authority failed with 19 Republicans voting against it. Wray will stress the critical nature of FISA renewal in securing the nation and emphasize the need for support from Congress to tackle threats and ensure the safety of Americans.
His testimony will take place amidst concerns among some House Republicans over the FBI, with calls for the agency to be defunded due to perceived bias against conservatives. Wray will reiterate the need for all tools, resources, and support to address these threats effectively and keep the American population safe.
In conclusion, Wray’s warning of a potential co-ordinated attack within the US highlights the ongoing threat posed by terrorist groups like ISIS-K. He emphasizes the need for continued vigilance and support from Congress in renewing critical surveillance measures like FISA to ensure the nation’s security. The backdrop of unease among some House Republicans regarding the FBI underscores the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in addressing threats and maintaining public safety.
