June 22, 2025 New York City is on heightened alert this weekend, and for good reason. The recent U.S. military strikes on three sites in Iran have sent ripples all the way across the globe, prompting a swift and significant security response right here in the Big Apple.

NYPD Steps Up: A Coordinated Response to Global Events

On Saturday, the NYPD wasted no time, immediately escalating security measures across the city. They're working hand-in-hand with federal partners, meticulously monitoring intelligence to identify and mitigate any potential threats that might emerge from this volatile international situation.

This proactive stance isn't just a precaution; it's a direct response to a shifting threat landscape. A 2018 report by the National Counterterrorism Center previously assessed the likelihood of Shia/Iran-sponsored terror on U.S. soil as low – unless the United States were to directly attack Iran. With that hypothetical now a reality, the city is taking every measure to prepare.

The Evolving Threat: Lone Wolves and Sleeper Cells

Experts are pointing to at least two primary concerns for domestic security. As ABC News Contributor Rich Frankel explained, there's the ongoing worry about the 'lone wolf' attacker – individuals radicalized and operating independently, capable of striking with little warning.

However, a more insidious threat involves 'sleeper cells.' Frankel elaborated: "Then you have the other type which a term we've used is sleeper cell - people who are agents of a foreign power - here in the United States and at times maybe they're just here to collect and spy. They've been told if something happens - they have an action plan - they have a plan to attack somebody or some location here in the United States."

Visible Security and Governor Hochul's Directive

By Sunday, the heightened vigilance was evident throughout the city. A noticeable police presence was observed at sensitive locations, including the Israeli Consulate, Trump Tower, and Temple Emanu-El, reflecting the broad scope of potential targets.

Further underscoring the gravity of the situation, Governor Kathy Hochul confirmed that New York State Police are actively engaged in safeguarding at-risk sites and bolstering defenses against potential cyberattacks. This multi-pronged approach acknowledges the evolving nature of modern warfare, where digital infrastructure is as vulnerable as physical targets.

Cybersecurity in Focus: Warnings from the Center for Internet Security

The cybersecurity dimension is a critical component of the current alert. The Center for Internet Security (CIS), a respected non-profit think tank, recently briefed law enforcement and government agencies on the implications of U.S. strikes on Iran. Their assessment is stark: "Tehran is likely to leverage a combination of direct, proxy, and irregular/inspired forces to conduct physical, cyber, or terrorist attacks against U.S. interests both at home and abroad."