Prepared Citizen Intelligence Brief
Date: June 23, 2025
Domestic Issues of Concern for Prepared Citizens
Heightened Threat Environment Post-Iran Strikes
Overview: Following U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites (Natanz, Fordow, Arak) on June 22, DHS issued a terrorism threat bulletin warning of retaliation risks. No specific threats have been confirmed, but concerns include cyberattacks and domestic sleeper cell activation.
Key Details:
• DHS and FBI are on alert for pro-Iranian threats but stress no credible plots have been identified.
• U.S. infrastructure, particularly power grids and communication networks, are viewed as potential targets.
• Federal agencies are increasing monitoring of individuals with prior travel or affiliations with Hezbollah or IRGC-linked groups.
Citizen Impact:
• Consider preparing for short-term infrastructure disruption: backup power, water, offline comms.
• Monitor official alerts (DHS, CISA, FBI) rather than X speculation.
Noteworthy Signal:
• NBC News confirms Iran sent a communiqué via an intermediary at last week’s G7, threatening activation of sleeper cells if attacked.
• DHS statement this morning confirms “a heightened threat environment” across U.S. cities.
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CrossPointe Community Church Shooting – Wayne, Michigan
Overview: On June 22, a 31-year-old male in tactical gear opened fire outside a church during Vacation Bible School. A church deacon rammed the attacker with a vehicle, and a security team member fatally shot him. The guard was wounded but survived.
Key Details:
• 150 people were inside the church, including children.
• The attacker had a handgun and rifle. Motive unknown; FBI is assisting local PD.
• Online misinformation (e.g., false casualty numbers) was quickly debunked.
Citizen Impact:
• Shows importance of trained, armed church safety teams.
• Highlights the effectiveness of layered responses: vehicle interdiction, firearms defense, internal lockdown.
• Reinforces the need for community-level drills and scenario-based training.
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• IDF reported 65% interception rate, significantly lower than prior 90% rates.
Overview: While no new high-profile political violence occurred overnight, radicalization and anti-government agitation continue across digital and real-world fronts.
New Developments:
• Portland ICE Office Attacked: Rioters launched fireworks and lasers at the ICE building this weekend. DHS confirms a 413% increase in assaults on federal officers since 2023.
• University Extremism: Mahmoud Khalil, a known agitator tied to pro-Hamas activity, was again released following violent protests. He and his group “Super UW” were responsible for over $1M in damages this spring.
• Hezbollah Sleeper Cell Scrutiny: FBI has expanded domestic surveillance following concerns of activation by Iranian-linked operatives. No active plots confirmed.
Citizen Impact:
• Increased risk of flash protests or symbolic violence against government targets.
• Monitor local and campus-level activism for potential spillover events.
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Foreign Issues with Domestic Relevance
U.S.–Iran Conflict Escalation
Overview: The U.S. struck three Iranian nuclear sites in retaliation for missile launches. Iran responded with 40+ ballistic missiles against Israel and has since voted to close the Strait of Hormuz.
Key Details:
• IDF reported 65% interception rate—significantly lower than prior 90% rates.
• U.S. deployed five destroyers and is preparing to position the USS Nimitz nearby.
• Iran has initiated diplomatic overtures to Russia and European nations.
• No confirmed radiation leakage at targeted nuclear sites (per IAEA).
Domestic Impact:
• Rising fuel prices likely due to Strait closure.
• Political friction inside the U.S. as President Trump dismissed intelligence assessments from DNI Tulsi Gabbard.
• High alert for Iranian retaliation or asymmetric responses.
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China Trade Tensions and Rare Earth Leverage
Overview: Talks between the U.S. and China remain stalled. China increased rare earth exports in May and is signaling a pivot to Europe with a major Airbus deal.
Key Details:
• U.S. maintains 30% tariffs on China; China retaliates with 10% tariffs.
• U.S. tech and clean energy sectors could be squeezed by rare earth limits.
• Oklahoma and Texas ramping up domestic mineral extraction projects.
Citizen Impact:
• Expect rising prices in electronics, batteries, solar gear.
• Financial planning should account for potential stagflation and trade shocks.
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Russia–Ukraine and North Korea Military Cooperation
Overview: Russia is deploying North Korean troops in Ukraine. The U.S. condemned this move. Peace talks in Istanbul are planned, but skepticism remains high.
Key Details:
• Russian officials reportedly offering death payments to North Korean families.
• U.S. continues funding Ukraine; Trump seeks a diplomatic off-ramp.
Domestic Impact:
• Polarization over U.S. foreign aid remains a hot-button issue.
• North Korea’s alignment with Russia raises broader stability concerns.
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Signals to Watch
• Hezbollah or IRGC-Linked Mobilization: FBI surveillance increasing in major metro areas.
• Cyberattacks on Infrastructure: Watch for outages or service interruptions framed as “technical issues.”
• Social Unrest Post-Church Shooting: Potential for culture war flashpoints or politically charged protests.
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Key Takeaways for Prepared Citizens
Security Preparedness:
• Arm and train local church/school teams.
• Conduct realistic drills.
Economic Resilience:
• Stock 2–4 weeks of essentials, at a minimum if you're just starting.
• Hedge against inflation with bulk goods and local sourcing.
Cyber & Grid Resilience:
• Backups for power, water, and comms.
• Implement cybersecurity best practices at home and work.
Narrative Discipline:
• Vet sources.
• Prioritize direct briefings from DHS, FBI, State, and trusted outlets.
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Stay safe. Be dangerous.