US notes increase in online discussions about civil war
Illustrative photo (Getty Images)
According to a report from the US Department of Homeland Security, US intelligence agencies are noting an increase in online discussions among domestic extremists regarding preparations for what they believe is an inevitable civil war, reports Politico.
The discussions, primarily occurring on anonymous, unmoderated online forums, are linked to the 2024 election and immigration issues.
"Some domestic violent extremists (DVEs) are reacting to the 2024 election season and prominent policy issues by engaging in illegal preparatory or violent activity that they link to the narrative of an impending civil war, raising the risk of violence against government targets and ideological opponents," the report from the DHS Office of Intelligence and Analysis states.
The report, dated September 6, 2024, reflects widespread concerns that violence may overshadow the election.
According to the report, at least five individuals who promoted the idea of an impending civil war this year have faced criminal charges. Four are charged with threats of violence or preparation for violence. The fifth is charged with murdering and beheading his father, a retired federal employee, in an attempt to save America from traitors in the alleged war between the government and citizens.
The DHS report states that potential triggers for violence could include election fraud, fears of mass migration, and crimes committed by non-US citizens. One internet user claimed that a hypothetical executive order granting citizenship to migrants could justify murder, as noted in the document.
The report includes a warning about the potential for violence but stresses that large-scale actions by extremists are unlikely due to law enforcement infiltration into online groups.
However, the document also notes that extremists are increasingly using encrypted channels to restrict federal access to their communications. This trend poses additional challenges for law enforcement agencies trying to monitor and prevent potential violence.
A recently published memorandum from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence indicates that Russia and Iran may attempt to incite violent protests in the US following next month's presidential election. This adds another layer of concern regarding the potential for unrest and violence during this critical political period.
