As US counterterrorism officials warned local law enforcement to be alert to individuals who appear to be scouting “soft targets” to attack, as well as a potential Paris-style attack by “copy cat” killers, President Obama assured that, “right now, we know of no specific and credible intelligence indicating a plot on the homeland."
Obama said “that is based on the latest information I just received in the Situation Room. It is similar to the information that I — the briefing that I received on Saturday before I left on my trip last week.”
He said “our counterterrorism, intelligence, homeland security and law enforcement professionals at every level are working overtime. They are continually monitoring threats at home and abroad, continually evaluating our security posture. They’re constantly working to protect all of us."
“Their work has prevented attacks,” Obama said, adding, “Their efforts have saved lives. They serve every hour of every day for the sake of our security. They did so before Paris, and they do so now — without fanfare or credit, and without a break for the holidays."
“So the bottom line is this: I want the American people to know … that the combined resources of our military, our intelligence and our homeland security agencies are on the case,” Obama continued. “They’re vigilant, relentless and effective. In the event of a specific, credible threat, the public will be informed. We do think it’s useful for people, as they’re going about their business, to be vigilant. If you see something suspicious, say something. That’s always helpful.”
“While the threat of terrorism is a troubling reality of our age, we are both equipped to prevent attacks, andwe are resilient in the face of those who would try to do us harm. And that’s something we can all be thankful for,” Obama stated.
“I want the American people to know — is that we are taking every possible step to keep our homeland safe,” he assured.
