More than two decades after the September 11, 2001, attacks, international and domestic terrorism remain a significant threat to the United States. The FBI remains agile and works with partners to neutralize terrorist cells and operatives in the United States, help dismantle extremist networks globally, and cut off financing and support for terror groups.
The terrorism threat has evolved from large-group conspiracies toward lone offenders who are more challenging to track and disrupt. The threat also continues to be driven by international and domestic violent extremists (DVEs) who spread their propaganda online and inspire individuals to act independently.
Domestically, the most serious threats continue to come from right-wing extremists and from DVEs with a focus on anti-Muslim or Islamophobic beliefs. These groups may seek to exploit polarizing events or political developments, such as the certification of the 2020 presidential election results, the ongoing pandemic, or sociopolitical developments that could fuel anger and hostility and provide an excuse for violence.
DVEs are likely to pursue a variety of attack strategies, such as bombings and car-bombings, knife or bladed weapon assaults, and cyberattacks. They may target government facilities and personnel, schools, religious institutions, the LGBTQI+ community, U.S. critical infrastructure, the media, or perceived ideological opponents. Additionally, they could test a target’s security by driving by, moving into sensitive areas of buildings, and observing the response of law enforcement and first responders. This type of reconnaissance can help terrorists determine how long it will take responders to get to a scene and what security barriers or procedures would be difficult to penetrate.