Former Assistant FBI Director Chris Swecker warned that terrorist threats remain elevated ahead of New Year’s Eve but urged Americans not to be governed by fear. He highlighted recent incidents — including an ISIS-inspired attack in New Orleans and a foiled bombing plot in southern California — and noted alleged ties to the Turtle Island Liberation Front. Swecker praised security and intelligence operations, said "intelligence activity is in hyperdrive," and urged the public to report suspicious activity promptly.
Former FBI Official: New Year's Terror Threat Elevated — “We Won't Bend the Knee”
Seven-foot-tall numerals for "2026" are displayed during an illumination ceremony on Dec. 26, 2025, at One Times Square in New York City, ahead of this year's New Year's Eve celebration in Times Square.
As federal, state and local law enforcement increase security ahead of New Year’s Eve celebrations, former Assistant FBI Director Chris Swecker warned that the terrorist threat remains elevated — but urged Americans not to let fear dictate their plans.
“We’re not going to bend the knee to terrorist activities,” Swecker said Wednesday on Fox & Friends, encouraging the public to remain calm but vigilant.
Heightened Threats and Recent Cases
Swecker noted that there is historically higher terrorist activity around New Year’s and other holidays. He cited an ISIS-inspired attack that struck New Orleans at the start of 2025 and a recently foiled New Year’s Eve bombing plot in southern California as examples of the risks authorities are tracking.
According to court documents, suspects in the California case had discussed multiple attacks and considered targeting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. Prosecutors allege the individuals are connected to the anti-government extremist group Turtle Island Liberation Front.
Chris Swecker testifies before a House Armed Services Subcommittee on Capitol Hill on Dec. 9, 2020, in Washington, D.C.
“The intelligence activity is in hyperdrive right now,” Swecker said, noting several plots have already been disrupted.
Law Enforcement Response
Swecker praised the nation’s security and intelligence agencies and highlighted the strong protective posture in major metropolitan areas. “There’s plenty of security out there, especially in New York City, Chicago, D.C., L.A. — those cities will be virtual fortresses,” he said.
He pointed to a Department of Justice case in which a Texas man was charged with providing bomb components and funds to people he believed were acting on behalf of ISIS — an example Swecker used to illustrate active disruption efforts by agencies including the NYPD and the DOJ.
What Officials Are Asking The Public To Do
Swecker urged revelers and travelers to "just be aware and alert" and to report suspicious behavior immediately to police or security personnel. He emphasized that public vigilance, coupled with intensified intelligence and law enforcement operations, helps prevent attacks and protect large public gatherings.
Authorities recommend following official guidance from local law enforcement, using event security checkpoints where provided, and relying on credible news sources for updates as New Year’s events proceed.
