As the threat of a major terror event looms over the United States, experts are issuing warnings about the vulnerability of big cities like New York City and Washington, D.C. The evolving technological landscape, increased interconnectivity, and influx of unvetted individuals entering the country pose significant challenges to counterterrorism efforts.

According to Paul Mauro, a retired NYPD inspector with extensive experience in counterterrorism, several factors contribute to the increased likelihood of a terrorist attack on U.S. soil. Advancements in technology, such as the availability of drones and widespread internet access, have expanded opportunities for extremist groups to plan and execute attacks. Additionally, the world has become more interconnected, enabling individuals to access resources and develop capabilities since the 9/11 attacks.

Mauro identifies current hot spots around the globe, including the Middle East, as potential sources of threats. He highlights Iran as a live threat, still seeking revenge for the killing of Qasem Soleimani. Anger over Israel's response to recent attacks in Gaza also poses a real danger. Furthermore, Mauro expresses concerns about a "nuclear capable" Russia, engaged in conflict with a U.S.-funded regime in Ukraine.

The southern border of the United States emerges as a significant opportunity for terrorists to exploit. Mauro emphasizes that millions of unvetted individuals have entered the country, and recent incidents involving Tajikistan nationals with ties to ISIS crossing the border illegally serve as "enormous red flags." Experts warn that the post-9/11 world has witnessed an influx of unvetted people from various countries, making it imperative to address security vulnerabilities.

Prominent figures such as former CIA Deputy Director Mike Morrell and FBI Director Christopher Wray have echoed concerns about the terror threat posed by vulnerabilities at the U.S.-Mexico border. Morrell emphasizes that the threat level is "blinking red," while Wray cites an increasing concern for attacks similar to terrorist incidents abroad.

Experts caution that terrorist groups like al-Qaeda, ISIS, and the ISIS affiliate known as ISIS-K continue to pose serious threats. U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) Gen. Michael Kurilla warns that ISIS-K, in particular, could carry out an operation against U.S. or Western interests abroad within six months, without much warning.

Given the evolving nature of the terror threat, the FBI has disrupted multiple terrorist attacks within the United States and remains vigilant. FBI Director Wray highlights the rise in threats from foreign terrorist organizations, with individuals or small groups potentially drawing inspiration from events in the Middle East to carry out attacks domestically.

Attorney General Merrick Garland has also emphasized the increased threat level since October 7, highlighting the need for heightened vigilance. Major cities like New York City and Washington, D.C., are identified as primary targets, alongside other densely populated areas.

Regarding the type of terror attacks that may occur, Mauro underscores the potential for bio-chemical events, which could lead to significant loss of life and contamination in enclosed environments. He notes that the use of bio-chem agents, similar to the damage caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, presents a nightmare scenario.

As the nation faces these high-level terror threats, authorities and security agencies must reinforce their efforts to counter the evolving tactics and strategies employed by extremist groups. The need for proactive measures to ensure the safety and security of the American population has become more critical than ever.