Federal authorities warn of lone-wolf attacks ahead of Independence Day

As communities across the United States prepare to celebrate Independence Day, the FBI and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have a warning. They are notifying local authorities about potential threats, mainly lone-wolf attackers and small extremist groups motivated by various reasons. This concern is especially prominent in major cities such as New York and San Francisco.

In a bulletin obtained by ABC News and CNN, the joint statement reads, “The most significant threat facing the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks (in New York City) stems from lone offenders and small groups seeking to commit acts of violence. These actors may be driven by racial, ethnic, political, religious, or personal grievances.”

Enhanced security efforts

While federal authorities placed their personnel on high alert, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul says New York City remains prepared and ready.

“National Guard personnel also remain deployed at major transportation hubs, as well as at key bridges and tunnels within New York City. We are also actively monitoring social media activity and continue to be on high alert for any cyberthreats,” Hochul said. “New Yorkers should never be intimidated by threats of violence or terror. I urge everyone to enjoy the holiday weekend with family and friends and to stay alert. If you see something, say something.”

Federal officials expressed concerns about San Francisco’s fireworks show, which they expect to attract around 200,000 attendees. Officials noted that it presents “a broad set of soft targets … for a mass casualty attack,” according to the bulletin.

Raising awareness

Federal officials have not identified any credible threats against major Fourth of July events. However, they encourage vigilance at large gatherings and shows that attract media attention. These events could potentially be targets for terrorists planning mass casualty attacks. The bulletin also detailed ramped-up security measures, including intelligence gathering, to address any threats that may arise.

The joint bulletin comes after high-profile incidents like the deadly 2025 New Year’s Day truck-ramming terror attack in New Orleans. In the months leading up to that lone-wolf attack, the FBI increasingly warned of threats. The FBI and DHS are now alerting agencies of potential copycat attacks and cite ongoing threats from foreign terrorist organizations against the U.S. and other Western nations. 

Potential motivations

The Israel-Hamas war has heightened global tensions and sparked mass protests worldwide, including in the U.S., raising concerns for law enforcement.

“Most attackers motivated at least in part by the Israel-HAMAS conflict have selected targets with a symbolic link to Israel,” the bulletin reads.

Authorities referenced June’s deadly Molotov cocktail attack in Colorado and the killing of two Israeli embassy staffers by a gunman in Washington, D.C., in May. Law enforcement officials stated that the gunman was inspired by the Israel-Hamas war.

Recently, DHS warned Tehran-linked hackers could hit American infrastructure through cyberattacks in retaliation for the U.S. bombing of Iran’s nuclear facilities in June. 

Watching the skies

As Independence Day celebrations approach, law enforcement is monitoring unauthorized drone usage. They believe that these drones could serve as a potential tool for terrorists planning attacks on mass gatherings.

“Although we have no credible, specific reporting regarding illicit plans to use UAS (unmanned aircraft systems) to target Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks, unauthorized UAS operations have the potential to increase public safety risks,” the joint bulletin said.

Straight Arrow News reached out to the FBI and DHS for comment but did not receive a response before publishing.