WASHINGTON, DC — The Department of Homeland Security is sounding the alarm as violence continues to grip the Middle East in the Israel-Hamas conflict. According to the agency, the United States remains in a heightened-threat environment.

While the battles between Israel and Hamas rage in the Middle East, DHS emphasizes that the most likely threat comes from people driven by violent ideologies. Lawmakers are urging the public to stand united against hate.

Representative Ro Khanna, a Democrat from California, made a strong call to action, saying, “We need to speak out loudly, clearly, and forcefully against anti-Semitism and Islamophobia.”

The Department of Homeland Security has reported a recent surge in threats against Jewish, Muslim, and Arab communities and their institutions. This is causing real fear among Americans.

Congressman Ro Khanna has shared his concerns, revealing that constituents in his district are living in fear. He stated, “They feel fearful sending their kids to school, people are feeling vulnerable, they’re feeling targeted.”

In a tragic turn of events near Congressman Bill Foster’s district, a man has been charged with the murder of a 6-year-old Palestinian boy in a Chicago suburb. This shocking incident underscores the urgency of addressing the rising hate and violence.

Congressman Bill Foster, a Democrat from Illinois, lamented the situation, saying, “This is not who we are as Americans.”

The Department of Homeland Security is actively collaborating with law enforcement agencies and offering resources to faith organizations seeking to protect themselves. This collaboration aims to safeguard places of worship and their communities.

Congressman Seth Magaziner, who plays a leading role in a House committee focused on counterterrorism, emphasized the seriousness of the issue. He pointed out that the FBI is taking these threats seriously but also stressed the importance of congressional leaders using clear and responsible language.

In response to these alarming developments, senators are taking action. They unanimously passed a resolution condemning universities they accuse of allowing students to spread dangerous anti-Semitic messages.

Senator Eric Schmitt, another Missouri Republican, pointed out that there’s a fine balance between respecting freedom of speech and recognizing the consequences of spreading hate. He stated, “We need to respect people’s ability to speak their mind, but at the same time, recognize the consequences.”