Former assistant FBI director, Chris Swecker, expressed concerns about the heightened security threat in the United States during recent events in Lebanon and Capitol Hill hearings. Swecker highlighted the vulnerability posed by open borders, particularly the 1,800-mile southern border, which allows individuals from various countries, including those with ties to terrorism, to enter without proper vetting.
He criticized the lack of resources and special projects dedicated to securing the border, emphasizing the need for thorough vetting of special-interest aliens by the FBI. Swecker warned that the current security gaps have made the U.S. susceptible to terrorist organizations, such as ISIS, which he believes now have the capability to launch wide-scale attacks on American soil.
During the hearings, concerns were raised about the potential for a coordinated terrorist attack by individuals who entered the country illegally in recent years. Swecker echoed the sentiment that the Department of Justice, FBI, and intelligence agencies should prioritize addressing actual terror threats over other issues.
He pointed out the lack of proactive measures taken by the FBI in recent years, contrasting it with past initiatives like the Southwest Border Initiative in the 90s. Swecker emphasized the importance of surging resources and implementing special projects along the border to combat security threats effectively.
Highlighting his experience in Iraq, Swecker stressed the significance of thorough vetting and database integration for individuals entering the country from conflict zones. He underscored the need for face-to-face interactions with countries of origin to establish effective vetting processes.
In conclusion, Swecker called for a shift from rhetoric to action, urging law enforcement and intelligence agencies to address the pressing security concerns facing the nation, particularly in light of the porous borders and potential terrorist threats.
