U.S. officials heighten security for Independence Day as experts warn of lone wolf terror risks after strikes on Iran.

Heightened Security Across Nation for Independence Day

With July 4th celebrations approaching, local and federal authorities are increasing security measures nationwide in response to potential threats linked to rising tensions between the United States and the Middle East. Security experts cite the aftermath of recent American and Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear sites as a significant factor prompting heightened alert levels.

Michael Verden, a former U.S. Secret Service agent and founder of The Lake Forest Group, stated, “Due to the Iran conflict, the Department of Homeland Security has a National Threat Advisory System, and as of June 22, we are at a heightened threat environment.” He explained that this advisory will remain in place at least through September 22, with the possibility of extension depending on further developments in Iran.

Authorities have expressed particular concern about large public gatherings and open-air events, which have historically been targets for violence. Verden recalled the 2022 Highland Park mass shooting on July 4th, which, though not officially classified as terrorism, underscored the risks associated with patriotic celebrations.

Precautionary Measures and Tactical Readiness

Law enforcement agencies are implementing strict access controls, including credential verification, bag checks, vehicle inspections, and enhanced surveillance for suspicious activity. “If there was some type of suspicious activity, do you have tactical units to respond…or assets such as explosives? They call it explosives ordinance disposal, which is EOD,” Verden noted. Coordination with local law enforcement and tactical units, such as canine teams and EOD specialists, is a priority at all major events.

Officials are also focusing on high vantage points, citing previous incidents where attackers exploited rooftops or other elevated positions. Event attendees are urged to familiarize themselves with venue layouts and to establish emergency plans, including meeting points in case of communication disruptions.

The Department of Homeland Security has warned that Iran “has a long-standing commitment to target U.S. Government officials it views as responsible for the death of an Iranian military commander killed in January 2020.” The DHS bulletin also notes that the likelihood of independent, domestically motivated violence could rise if Iranian leadership calls for retaliatory action. Recent attacks have been linked to anti-Semitic and anti-Israel sentiment, intensifying concern as the Israel-Iran conflict persists.

Federal intelligence agencies are working proactively to identify and mitigate emerging threats associated with the holiday. Law enforcement is advised to follow a three-step approach: assess event spaces, designate incident commanders, and provide thorough training to first responders and officials in advance.

Iran’s Nuclear Program Targeted, Retaliation Feared

A recent report from the Institute for Science and International Security (ISIS) highlighted the impact of Israel’s Operation Rising Lion and subsequent U.S. strikes, stating that “extensive damage” had been inflicted on Iranian centrifuge enrichment facilities and other nuclear infrastructure. While the strikes have set back Iran’s nuclear program, analysts warn that remaining uranium stocks and undestroyed centrifuges still pose risks and could be used for future weaponization.

The destruction of key sites, including the Fordow facility, has led to ongoing speculation about potential Iranian retaliation against U.S. interests, particularly as the Independence Day holiday provides a symbolic target. “There’s always a little bit of a heightened risk level when it comes to these patriotic events…This would be an opportune time for adversaries to attempt an attack,” Verden emphasized.

As the nation prepares to celebrate its independence, officials urge vigilance and caution. The coming days will test the effectiveness of coordinated security efforts and the resilience of public gatherings in the face of evolving threats.