National security is a major concern in the wake of the deadly terrorist attacks in Paris, with major cities across the U.S. increasing police presence and safety measures.
The news comes as the latest ISIS propaganda video threatens to strike New York City, a message released only 48 hours after a similar video targeting Washington D.C.
New York City’s mayor and police commissioner stood together in the middle of Times Square Wednesday evening and vowed that while they while they will take necessary precautions, their city will not live in fear.
“Make it very clear the people of New York City will not be intimidated,” Mayor Bill de Blasio said. The new ISIS propaganda video brags about the Paris terror attacks and shows images of New York City, bombs and suicide bombers preparing for an attack.
“We have more police in the District of Columbia than any city in the United States. They have assured me that they are at a higher level,” D.C. Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton (D) said.
U.S. intelligence officials warn that while they’re doing all they can to prevent a homeland attack. But the growing numbers of radicalized Americans who are inspired by ISIS are stretching their resources.
In an exclusive interview with CBN News, Morten Storm, a former jihadist turned spy for the CIA and the British intelligence office MI6, warns an attack during the holiday season is very likely.
“I have a feeling that, a bad feeling that—and I hope really I’m wrong—but it’s going to either be in this holiday in America or its going to be for Christmas,” he said.
“People are opportunists,” he explained. “They intend to create fear in people’s heart, and I know I will do that by saying this, too, but I want people to be aware that there are enemies out there.”
CBN News Terrorism Analyst Erick Stakelbeck agrees, saying major shopping seasons create the perfect environments for an attack.
“Look Thanksgiving, obviously, Black Friday, huge shopping day, right? The Christmas shopping season coming—these are unfortunately prime targets,” he said.
One FBI official recently told The Washington Times, “The attackers could look and act just like everyday Americans, until they strike with weapons we haven’t seen in terror attacks here.”
Authorities warn people to be careful of more attacks aimed at soft targets, such as sporting events, hotel parties, restaurants or other entertainment venues.
