FBI issues warning of lone actor violence for holiday events

The FBI warned Americans on Tuesday of potential violence perpetuated by lone actors over the holidays, as tensions continue to rise amid the Israel-Hamas war.

The FBI, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and National Counterterrorism Center issued a public service announcement saying the war will heighten “the threat of lone actor violence targeting large public gatherings throughout the winter.” It said large gatherings throughout the holidays might be a “convenient target” for those inspired to commit violence against Jewish, Christian, Muslim and Arab communities.

“Calls for violence may increase in the days leading up to the holidays and before other notable events this winter,” the announcement states. “Factors that could further exacerbate the threat of violence include escalations in the conflict between Israel and HAMAS and notable instances of violence in the Homeland inspiring copycat or retaliatory attacks.”

“We therefore urge everyone to remain vigilant and to report any threats of violence or suspicious activity to law enforcement,” the announcement continues.

The agencies noted that there has been a rise of “potential hate crimes or other criminal violations” since Hamas launched its surprise attack on Israel on Oct. 7, which left more than 1,200 people dead. The announcement added that there has been an increase in hoax bomb and shooting threats against synagogues across the country.

The agencies also said the announcement did not come in response to any “specific plotting activity.” The warning said due to the numerous ideologies involved, multiple targets “likely remain attractive to lone actors.”

FBI Director Christopher Wray said last week that the agency has seen a 60 percent jump in hate crime investigations across the U.S. since the outbreak of the war, with many of them targeting the Jewish community. He also said the FBI is working to prevent potential attacks inspired by Hamas as calls for violence against the U.S. have increased.

“Given the steady drumbeat of calls for attacks by foreign terrorist organizations since Oct. 7, we’re working around the clock to identify and disrupt potential attacks by those inspired by Hamas’s horrific terrorist attacks in Israel,” Wray said in an appearance before the Senate Judiciary Committee last week.