Foreign adversaries and terrorist groups are increasingly becoming more focused on the United States. They are directing their attention towards cyber operations, security, and adopting “mafia-like” tactics. FBI Director Christopher Wray expressed concern about this trend during a speech on Tuesday.
During the American Bar Association luncheon in Washington, D.C., Wray emphasized the agency’s active efforts in thwarting coordinated attacks by terrorist organizations like ISIS-K, a subsidiary of ISIS.
FBI Director Christopher Wray expressed his concerns about the rise in threats from foreign terrorists, specifically ISIS, al-Qaida, and their supporters, who have been calling for attacks on Jewish communities in the United States and other Western countries. Wray emphasized the potential for coordinated attacks, similar to the recent ISIS-K attack at the Russia Concert Hall. He stated that the ongoing conflict and its aftermath have the potential to fuel radicalization and mobilization for years to come.
As experts predict an imminent attack on the United States, authorities issue a warning about the potential threat posed by ISIS.
Retired Gen. Frank McKenzie emphasized the importance of believing the promises made by individuals when they express their intentions. He specifically stated, “We should believe them when they say that. They’re going to try to do it.” This statement was made during an interview with ABC News’ “This Week” co-anchor Martha Raddatz.
During his remarks on Tuesday, Wray also discussed the various threats posed by malicious individuals or groups originating from Russia, China, North Korea, and Iran. These threats, both visible and hidden, continue to be a concern for national security.
According to the expert, Russia is actively pursuing the sabotage of crucial underwater cables that play a vital role in global communications.
According to Wray, the Russian government is actively investing in their cyber operations as they view cyber as a powerful tool to compete with the United States. He emphasized that Russia is specifically targeting critical infrastructure such as underwater cables and industrial control systems, not only in the US but also globally. Wray highlighted that since the invasion of Ukraine, Russia has been conducting reconnaissance on the US energy sector. Of additional concern is that Russian cyber campaigns are indiscriminate, affecting civilians along with other targets, similar to other adversaries.
According to him, the Chinese government has a strategic approach and focuses on long-term goals.
According to Wray, the Chinese cyber program surpasses all other government programs in terms of size. He emphasized that it outnumbers the United States’ program by a staggering ratio of 50 to one. Wray further expressed concern over the Chinese cyber threat, describing their tactics as “mafia-like” and highlighting the seriousness of the situation.
In addition, he vigorously defended Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, which provides the foundation for the government to collect the communications of non-Americans abroad who communicate on U.S.-based platforms without requiring a warrant. The House is currently considering the reauthorization of Section 702 this week.
FBI Director Christopher Wray emphasized that the potential consequences of restricting our actions are not just theoretical.
After his speech, he also answered questions from the audience. During this Q&A session, he strongly criticized the House Republicans for their proposed $500 million cut to the FBI budget.
He remarked that China is not reducing their budget.
He said that cutting the budget of the FBI is a way to hinder its progress.
“Who benefits from budget cuts?” he inquired. “It benefits violent criminals, child predators, the Chinese government, cyber hackers, and ransomware actors. It also aids the cartels and terrorists. Who suffers? Our law enforcement partners, state and local law enforcement partners who rely on us in various ways. Ultimately, it harms the American people in their own neighborhoods.”
