On 9/11, Trump's DHS chief makes grim prediction about America's next attack

WASHINGTON, DC: As America marked 25 years since the September 11 attacks, Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin warned that another attack could happen again, saying the challenge of protecting the country is ensuring that even a single person with harmful intentions does not go unnoticed.

Mullin, who became Trump's Homeland Security secretary in March, made the remarks while reflecting on the security failures that preceded 9/11.

Nearly 3,000 people were killed in the 2001 attacks, which reshaped America's approach to national security and led to the creation of the Department of Homeland Security.

Markwayne Mullin says attack is possible

Asked about his biggest fears, Mullin said another attack was “probably not a matter of if; it's more a matter of when something happens again.”

He said such an event would not necessarily mean law enforcement had failed in its broader mission.

“And it won't be because we didn't do our job,” Mullin said. “It's because that one little person that wanted to tear down our American dream went unnoticed.”

His warning came as Americans gathered across the country to remember those killed on September 11, 2001.

The anniversary included ceremonies in New York, at the Pentagon and in Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

Sanctuary cities become his next target

Mullin then turned to sanctuary cities, one of the Trump administration's major points of disagreement with several Democratic-led cities and states.

He said protecting the homeland becomes more difficult when federal authorities face limits on cooperation from local jurisdictions.

“It's tough to sometimes fight... sanctuary cities where they don't want us to go into,” Mullin said.

He argued that cities that do not support law enforcement can become “a safe haven” for activity that threatens national security.

Mullin named Seattle, San Francisco, New York City, Boston, and Fairfax, Virginia, while arguing that security concerns in one part of the country can affect others.

Mullin calls for common purpose

Mullin ended his remarks by calling for Americans to put political differences aside when it comes to public safety.

“Regardless if you think blue or you think red,” he said, “we should all want our families to be safe.”

He also said Americans should support first responders and law enforcement and work to prevent criminal activity.