LOS ANGELES, CA (LA News Center) – In a congressional address, FBI Director Christopher Wray painted a sobering picture of the current threats facing the United States, urging lawmakers to address the urgent need for increased support and resources.
Heightened Threats Call for Vigilance
Director Wray emphasized the “elevated threats” to public safety and national security, citing the ongoing conflict in the Middle East as a potential catalyst for terrorism on American soil. He highlighted the recent Russia Concert Hall attack as a chilling example of the potential for coordinated assaults within the United States.
“Individuals or small groups could be inspired to carry out attacks here at home. Our most pressing concern is the possibility of a coordinated attack comparable to the ISIS-K assault we witnessed in Russia,” Wray warned.
Budget Cuts Threaten Law Enforcement
Along with these heightened threats, Wray strongly condemned proposed budget cuts to the FBI, arguing that they would cripple not only federal operations but also state and local law enforcement agencies.
“Every day, FBI personnel collaborate closely with task force officers from hundreds of police departments and sheriffs’ offices nationwide,” Wray explained. “We offer expertise, investigative support, and training to enhance their ability to safeguard our communities.”
He emphasized that any funding reductions would directly impact these partners, who are “putting themselves in harm’s way to protect us.”
Urgent Plea for Support
To combat these pressing threats, Wray implored Congress to reauthorize Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), which is set to expire soon.
“This indispensable tool allows us to monitor foreign nationals overseas and is critical for our national security,” Wray said. “We are running out of time, and we urgently need your support.”
National Implications
Wray concluded by reminding lawmakers that challenges facing law enforcement have a profound impact on the entire nation.
“These threats do not discriminate between federal, state, or local jurisdictions. Our safety depends on collaboration and adequate resources. We implore you to address these urgent concerns and ensure that our law enforcement agencies are equipped to protect us,” Wray concluded.
Data sourced from: foxnews.com
