Foiled Terror Plot Highlights Urgent Need for Church Vigilance
Nasir Ahmed Tawedi’s Plot: A Stark Reminder of the Ongoing Terrorist Threat
Recent developments in Oklahoma have brought to light a terrorist plot with disturbing implications for church security across the nation. Nasir Ahmed Tawedi, a 27-year-old Afghan national, was arrested for conspiring to carry out a terrorist attack on Election Day, allegedly on behalf of ISIS. His plan included targeting large gatherings at election stations in what he planned as a martyrdom attack.
This arrest serves as another reminder that the threat of terrorism is real, and as we've previously discussed, the church security threat level remains at Severe (Red). Tawedi’s case highlights that while federal agencies are successfully intercepting some plots, there are simply too many terrorists in the country to stop all threats before they materialize. This means churches must stay vigilant, especially as we approach significant national events like Election Day and Inauguration Day. Our threat index will take us through those days and the risk to churches is significant during this time period.
A Broader Pattern of ISIS Activity
Tawedi’s plot is not an isolated case. Just this year, several other individuals linked to ISIS have been arrested across major U.S. cities. These arrests underscore a broader pattern: ISIS and its affiliates continue to be active within our borders. The reality is that many potential terrorists have entered the country over the past few years, and while law enforcement is doing its best to manage this threat, it is impossible to catch every one of them before they act.
Why Churches Are a Prime Target
Churches are soft targets for terrorist attacks. Large gatherings of worshippers provide an attractive opportunity for terrorists looking to cause maximum casualties and fear. Tawedi's communications showed he intended to attack during a significant public event. With churches already being targeted in the past, it's critical that we remain on high alert.
As I’ve warned in previous updates, ISIS-related terrorist cells are actively working to disrupt peace, and our churches could be next on their list. This is why staying vigilant and prepared is crucial.
How to Protect Your Church
To ensure your church is ready, I urge you to revisit the protective measures outlined in my previous alert (available here). The steps are simple but effective:
Keep your churches open to current and new worshipers: This is the most important step you can take. Do not make your church look unwelcoming. This does mean you will have to work harder than you have before.
Increase your security presence: Double your security personnel and have armed team members at all entry points. Do not have doors that people can enter that are not monitored.
Monitor entry points: Observe all individuals entering the church, especially during large gatherings. Act as a greeter welcoming everyone coming in. People wishing to do harm will stick out.
Coordinate with local law enforcement: While federal agencies are overburdened, staying in touch with local authorities can enhance your preparedness and response. They may not have more information for you, but they will know that you want them actively involved.
Remain vigilant: Educate your congregation on pre-attack indicators, and ensure that security teams are trained to act swiftly when necessary.
By taking these actions, we can minimize the chances of an attack and protect the sanctity of our worship.
The Road Ahead
As federal agents continue to interrupt terrorist plots, it’s clear that this threat won’t go away after Election Day. We must prepare for the risk of attack through Inauguration Day and possibly beyond. The next few months are critical for church security, and now more than ever, it’s essential to remain vigilant, prayerful, and prepared.
Stay tuned to Christian Warrior Training for more updates, and make sure your church is ready for whatever comes next.
I have a fellow I know with the government federal law enforcement that says that they are greatly concerned about unrest from now through the election and beyond. They are told that they will remain on alert through the end of February regardless of who wins.
I'm no longer confident that the feds tell us the truth.