US raises homeland security alert after Iran strikes, federal agencies heighten surveillance

WASHINGTON, DC: Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said on Saturday, February 28, that federal authorities are closely tracking any potential threats to the United States following overnight US strikes on Iran.

“I am in direct coordination with our federal intelligence and law enforcement partners as we continue to closely monitor and thwart any potential threats to the homeland,” Noem wrote in a post on X.

Her comments came amid heightened concerns over possible retaliation against US interests at home and abroad.

FBI on elevated alert nationwide, says Kash Patel

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has placed its counterintelligence teams on elevated alert nationwide.

"FBI personnel are fully engaged on the situation overseas. Last night I instructed our Counter operative and intelligence teams to be on high alert and mobilize all assisting security assets needed," said FBI Director Kash Patel.

"Our JTTFs throughout the country are working 24/7, as always, to address and disrupt any potential threats to the homeland. While the military handles force protection overseas, the @FBI remains at the forefront of deterring attacks here at home and will continue to have our team work around the clock to protect Americans," he added.

Further, he said, "We ask everyone to please report anything that may seem suspicious to law enforcement - 1-800-CALL-FBI and http://tips.fbi.gov. Thank you to all military service members, federal partners, and law enforcement who continue to put mission first," he said in a statement on X. 

As part of the heightened posture, federal authorities are expected to expand both physical and online surveillance, according to a law enforcement official, reflecting concerns about lone-actor threats or coordinated attempts at retaliation.

Secret Service boosts protective measures

Citing the increased risk environment, the United States Secret Service issued a separate public advisory warning of enhanced security around sites connected to protectees.

“While we do not discuss our specific protective measures for operational security reasons, the public may notice an increased law enforcement and federal presence around US Secret Service protected sites,” the agency said. 

It added that any temporary traffic or pedestrian disruptions will be communicated by local law enforcement. 

NYPD increase patrols on aftermath of US strikes on Iran

The stepped-up federal posture is being mirrored by local law enforcement agencies across the country. In New York City, the New York City Police Department said it has increased patrols as a precautionary measure.

“The NYPD is closely monitoring events in Iran and the Middle East and coordinating with our federal and international partners,” the department said in a statement.

“As is our protocol and out of an abundance of caution, we will be enhancing patrols to sensitive locations throughout the city, including diplomatic, cultural, religious, and other relevant sites.”

Meanwhile, Vice President JD Vance was in the White House Situation Room overnight monitoring developments related to the Iran strikes, CNN reported. He was joined by Energy Secretary Chris Wright, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard.