Federal and local officials are increasing security at Independence Day events nationwide due to escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Following U.S. attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities on June 22, the Department of Homeland Security raised its threat level to “heightened,” and that designation will remain through at least September 22, according to former Secret Service agent Michael Verden.
Verden, now CEO of The Lake Forest Group, told Fox News Digital that travel and public gatherings around July 4 will have extra safeguards “because of this heightened threat environment.” The concern centers on lone‑wolf attackers inspired by the Iran‑Israel conflict, not large-scale coordinated operations.
A DHS bulletin made clear the risk may rise further “if Iranian leadership issued a religious ruling calling for retaliatory violence.” It also referenced previous U.S.‑based attacks driven by anti‑Semitic or anti‑Israel motives, and warned that ongoing tensions could lead to similar incidents.
“We are enhancing security measures and coordinating intelligence-sharing to proactively address potential risks, including those from lone wolf actors. At this time, DHS is not aware of any specific, credible, threats to Fourth of July celebrations,” DHS said.
Additionally, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said she has been “briefed consistently over the previous few weeks on the current threat landscape given heightened tensions around the world,” adding: “Our federal partners reiterated yesterday that lone wolf actors remain the greatest potential threat including during the upcoming July 4th holiday. Keeping New Yorkers safe is my top priority — especially as families gather to celebrate this holiday weekend.”
Verden recalled the 2022 Highland Park shooting on July 4, which killed seven people, including an 8‑year‑old. While not officially classified as terrorism, the tragedy brought attention to the danger of “open‑air events.”
To counter potential threats, officials are emphasizing checks at event entrances, screening bags and parking areas, and deploying explosives-detection tools.
“National Guard personnel also remain deployed at major transportation hubs, as well as at key bridges and tunnels within New York City. We are also actively monitoring social media activity and continue to be on high alert for any cyberthreats,” Hochul said. “New Yorkers should never be intimidated by threats of violence or terror. I urge everyone to enjoy the holiday weekend with family and friends and to stay alert. If you see something, say something.”
Federal officials are worried San Francisco’s July 4th fireworks show—expected to draw 200,000 people—could present “a broad set of soft targets … for a mass casualty attack,” according to a threat assessment bulletin obtained by ABC News. Authorities are also concerned about potential copycat attacks after Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a Texas native inspired by ISIS online, killed 14 and injured 57 by driving a truck through Bourbon Street on New Year’s Day in New Orleans.
