Bipartisan Lawmakers Sound Alarm on Potential Threats to Upcoming Large-Scale Events

New York City remains a top terror target, with over two decades of heightened threats from foreign terrorist organizations and homegrown violent extremists, lawmakers from the House Homeland Security Committee warned. The lawmakers, led by Rep. Andrew Garbarino (R-N.Y.), chair of the House Homeland Security Committee, are visiting Ground Zero to commemorate the 24th anniversary of 9/11. Their visit highlights the ongoing concerns about potential threats to the U.S., particularly as the country gears up to host large-scale events like the FIFA World Cup next year.

Key Takeaways:

• The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has identified New York City as the top terror target in the country, with the Justice Department's research and technology agency, the National Institute of Justice, determining in 2023 that New York City had the highest number of attempted or actual terror incidents.
• A bipartisan group of lawmakers from the House Homeland Security Committee is visiting Ground Zero on the 24th anniversary of 9/11, sounding the alarm on potential threats to the U.S.
• The lawmakers are also attending a tour of the National September 11 Memorial and Museum and will participate in a staff-led tour Thursday evening, highlighting the importance of remembering and acting on the lessons of 9/11.
• Members of the committee have spearheaded legislation to address persistent terrorist threats, including Rep. August Pfluger's Countering Online Radicalization and Terrorism Act.
• Lawmakers will also visit the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, where the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be held, to examine security preparations for the event and discuss potential threats.
• The House Homeland Security Committee's Task Force on Special Events is providing oversight of security efforts for upcoming international events, including the 2028 Summer Olympics and the U.S.' 250th anniversary in 2026.