Deadly New Orleans attack underscores looming threat of IS attacks in the US

“IS poses threats in the form of directed operations, guided plots and inspiring followers to mobilise,” said Lucas Webber, a senior threat intelligence analyst at Tech Against Terrorism. “The organisation and greater movement will look to leverage the attack for propaganda purposes and to build support.”

After the lethal IS attack on a Moscow theatre that killed 145 people in March, Webber said there was a surge in propaganda calling for the US to be next.

“IS, its branches and pro-IS propaganda outlets have continued to heavily focus on the United States as a leading enemy and top priority target,” he said. “Given IS’s evolving online guidance activities, it’s vital for governments to build open-source intelligence capabilities to identify and disrupt plots.”"

The Guardian, 4 January 2025