In a recent statement, counter-terrorism expert Paul Mauro has raised concerns about the growing likelihood of a terror attack on American soil. Mauro, a retired NYPD inspector with extensive experience in counterterrorism, believes that various factors have converged to raise the risk level to an alarming degree.

According to Mauro, major U.S. cities, such as New York City and Washington, D.C., are particularly vulnerable to potential attacks. Despite enhanced surveillance and airport security measures since the devastating events of 9/11, the world has witnessed significant technological advancements and changes. Mauro emphasizes that the accessibility and affordability of technology, along with the widespread reach of the internet, have altered the landscape of security.

Furthermore, he points out that America's open borders pose a significant challenge. Millions of individuals from around the world, some vetted while others unvetted, are living within the general population and entering the country at record rates. Mauro warns that this influx creates opportunities for individuals with malicious intent to seamlessly insert themselves into American society.

Mauro argues that potential threats are likely to emerge from current global hotspots. He highlights the Middle East, citing Iran as a live threat seeking revenge for the killing of Qasem Soleimani, an Iranian major general. He also mentions the heightened risk posed by those angered by Israel's response to recent attacks in Gaza. Furthermore, Mauro draws attention to Russia's ongoing conflict with a U.S.-funded regime in Ukraine, characterizing a "nuclear capable" Russia as an additional source of concern.

Commenting on the current situation, Mauro asserts that "motives that preexisted 9/11 have only been exacerbated." He emphasizes that the opportunity for terrorists lies at the southern border, where an influx of unvetted individuals has created a wave of migrant-related crime. Mauro highlights the recent arrest of Tajikistan nationals with ties to ISIS, who allegedly crossed the southern border illegally, as a significant red flag.

Mauro's concerns are echoed by former CIA Deputy Director Mike Morrell, who recently published an op-ed labeling the vulnerabilities at the U.S.-Mexico border as a "blinking red" terror threat. The FBI Director, Christopher Wray, and U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) Gen. Michael Kurilla have also acknowledged the serious threats posed by terrorist groups like al Qaeda and ISIS.

Kurilla cautioned that ISIS-K, the ISIS affiliate operating in Afghanistan and Pakistan, could potentially carry out an operation against U.S. or Western interests abroad in under six months with little warning. Wray further highlighted the FBI's increased concerns about terrorist attacks similar to the one that occurred at a Moscow concert hall, where 145 people were killed and 550 injured.

The combination of these experts' warnings and recent incidents underscores the urgent need to address vulnerabilities and enhance security measures. As the global landscape continues to evolve, authorities must remain vigilant and proactive in order to safeguard the United States and its citizens from the ever-present threat of terrorism.