The escalating US strikes on Iran as of March 1, 2026, have dramatically heightened risks for Americans, including potential activation of Iranian-backed sleeper cells or proxies targeting the homeland. Following joint US-Israeli military operations starting February 28, 2026—codenamed Operation Epic Fury by the US and Roaring Lion by Israel—the strikes killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, along with dozens of senior officials, military leaders, and civilians. The campaign targeted nuclear facilities, missile sites, command centers, and leadership compounds in cities like Tehran, Isfahan, and others, with President Donald Trump announcing continued heavy bombing “uninterrupted throughout the week or as long as necessary” to eliminate threats, prevent nuclear weapon development, and pursue regime change.
Iran has retaliated with missile and drone attacks on Israel, US bases in the region, and sites in Gulf countries like Dubai, Doha, and Bahrain, causing explosions, air raid sirens, and civilian impacts. Trump has warned of overwhelming US force if Iran escalates further. This direct conflict marks a sharp departure from prior limited actions, raising the terrorism threat level domestically.
Updated Risk of Sleeper Cells and Attacks on America
DHS and FBI assessments (including the 2025 Homeland Threat Assessment and recent NTAS bulletins) have long flagged Iran as the leading state sponsor of terrorism, with ongoing efforts to plot against US persons, officials, and interests. Iran has disrupted plots in the US since 2020, often using agents, criminal proxies, Hezbollah networks, or inspired lone actors. The current war—especially Khamenei’s death and regime instability—could trigger activation of pre-positioned sleeper cells, cyber operations, or proxy attacks as retaliation.
Key elevated risks include:
- Hezbollah Unit 910 or IRGC-linked operatives conducting surveillance, bombings, or assassinations.
- Cyber attacks on US infrastructure by Iranian-affiliated hackers.
- Inspiration for homegrown violent extremists via online propaganda amid the conflict.
- No specific credible plots publicly confirmed yet, but DHS Secretary Kristi Noem has confirmed direct coordination with intelligence agencies for heightened vigilance.
The threat environment is now at its highest since prior escalations, with potential for asymmetric responses on US soil.
How Americans Can Stay Careful Amid Sleeper Cell Threats
Focus on awareness, reporting, and preparedness—without panic—as federal agencies handle detection and disruption.
- Report Suspicious Activity Immediately Use the “If You See Something, Say Something®” campaign: Call local law enforcement, 911 for emergencies, or submit tips to the FBI (tips.fbi.gov). Watch for:
- Surveillance of key sites (government buildings, synagogues, events).
- Unusual chemical/weapon purchases or testing.
- Radicalization recruitment or sudden behavioral changes. Community tips have foiled past plots.
- Monitor Official Alerts Check DHS (dhs.gov), FBI (fbi.gov), and CISA for updates. Avoid unverified social media claims that spread fear or misinformation.
- Enhance Personal and Family Readiness Review Run, Hide, Fight for active threats. Know escape routes in public spaces. Prepare emergency kits, family communication plans, and safe meeting spots.
- Bolster Home and Digital Security Use strong locks, cameras, and lighting. Update software and use multi-factor authentication to counter cyber threats from Iran-linked actors.
- Reject Profiling—Focus on Behavior Report based on actions, not ethnicity or appearance, to avoid harming communities.
The US has thwarted numerous Iranian-linked plots through intelligence and public vigilance. Staying informed and proactive strengthens security during this volatile period.
For real-time updates, visit official sources like dhs.gov or fbi.gov. This is based on developments as of March 1, 2026.
