4th Of July Celebrations Face Heightened Security Due to Potential Terror Threats
on Jul 03, 2025
Independence Day Celebrations Will See Extra Security This Year
Authorities are warning that solo acts of terror have become the biggest threat for large 4th of July celebrations amid current tensions between the United States and the Middle East this year.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said they are “working closely with the FBI and other federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to ensure a safe and secure Independence Day across the nation.”
“We are enhancing security measures and coordinating intelligence-sharing to proactively address potential risks, including those from lone wolf actors. At this time, DHS is not aware of any specific, credible, threats to Fourth of July celebrations,” DHS said.
Security Tightens In The Big Apple
New York City, especially, is on heightened alert concerning the possibility for terrorist attacks over the holiday.
Governor Kathy Hochul said she has been “briefed consistently over the previous few weeks on the current threat landscape given heightened tensions around the world.”
“Our federal partners reiterated yesterday that lone wolf actors remain the greatest potential threat including during the upcoming July 4th holiday. Keeping New Yorkers safe is my top priority — especially as families gather to celebrate this holiday weekend,” Hochul shared.
The Democrat announced that State Police will also be on the ground at large events across the state.
“New York’s law enforcement personnel have already been in an increased alert posture following the recent conflict in the Middle East, but at my direction, State Police will have an increased presence at large events throughout the state,” and the governor’s office “will be closely coordinating with local and federal law enforcement partners to ensure the safety of all involved.”
Hochul explained that while New Yorkers should not be worried about celebrating the holiday, citizens are encouraged to reach out to law enforcement if they see something suspicious.
“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,” the Governor 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.”
Officials Warn Of “Copycat” Attacks
Federal officials are also warning of potential “copycat” incidents following the deadly New Year’s Day attack in New Orleans. In the early hours of January 1st, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a Texas native reportedly radicalized through online ISIS propaganda, drove a pickup truck into a crowded stretch of Bourbon Street.
In cities such as San Francisco, nearly 200,000 people are expected to gather along the waterfront for this year’s 4th of July fireworks, an event that the FBI has warned may provide a “broad set of soft targets” for a mass casualty attack.
“We are in constant communication with our local, state and federal law enforcement partners for any development regarding any credible threats to San Francisco. At this time, we have no information of any credible threats. The Department has cancelled discretionary time off and will have all available officers working on July 4th. We are prepared to respond to any incident that may occur. The City expects many residents and visitors to enjoy the July 4th Holiday festivities,” the San Francisco Police Department said.
Retired commander of the San Francisco police Rich Corriea said that while these large gatherings pose a threat, people should not change their plans for the holiday, but need to remain “vigilant.”
“I think we’re in a more dangerous time. Time to be vigilant. Is it a time where we don’t live our lives the way we would like to? No, I don’t think so. Most folks are not bent on harming anybody. It’s the few, not the many.”
