FBI Director Christopher Wray expressed concerns on Tuesday about the potential influence of Hamas’ activities in the Middle East on extremist behaviors within the U.S. He stated, “We assess that the actions of Hamas and its allies will serve as an inspiration the likes of which we haven’t seen since ISIS launched its so-called caliphate years ago.” This statement was made during his testimony before the Senate Homeland Security Committee, which was centered on the threats facing the U.S.
Wray emphasized the recent calls from various foreign terrorist organizations urging attacks against Americans and the West. He highlighted the immediate threat posed by violent extremists, either as individuals or small groups, who might be motivated by events in the Middle East to target Americans. This includes both homegrown violent extremists influenced by foreign terrorist organizations and domestic violent extremists who might target Jewish or Muslim communities.
The FBI Director mentioned a recent arrest in Houston of an individual who was researching bomb-making and had expressed online support for harming Jews. He also brought attention to the tragic killing of a 6-year-old Muslim boy in Illinois, which the FBI is investigating as a potential hate crime. Wray revealed that the FBI is currently overseeing “multiple, ongoing investigations” related to individuals associated with Hamas.
He concluded by emphasizing the FBI’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the American public and supporting allies in Israel. “Protecting Americans from the threat of terrorism is, and remains, our No. 1 priority,” Wray asserted.
