By Jim Talamonti | The Center Square
The Center Square

(The Center Square) – Chicago Police say they are monitoring the U.S. conflict in Iran.

Residents and visitors observed a significant increase in police presence at O’Hare International Airport and on area passenger trains this week.

In a statement to The Center Square, the Chicago Police Department said it is monitoring the situation in Iran.

“While there is no actionable intelligence related to Chicago at this time, we are paying special attention to places of worship and will adjust resources if necessary as we continue to follow the rapidly unfolding events,” the CPD statement said.

Chris Talgo, editorial director at The Heartland Institute, said it is important for state and local governments to work with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

“These leaders should be completely coordinating with DHS to make sure that the odds of a terrorist strike here in the United States, in Chicago or in Illinois are reduced to the fullest extent possible,” Talgo said.

Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling formerly led the department’s counterterrorism bureau.

Talgo said Iranian-based terrorists could have entered the U.S. when the border was open during the Biden administration.

“I am worried about domestic terrorism and the fact that there were thousands of people who were on the known terrorist watch list who did come to this country over the past few years. We don’t know where they are. We don’t know what they’re up to,” Talgo told The Center Square.

The FBI’s National Press Office released a statement related to The Center Square’s inquiry.

“FBI personnel continue to be fully engaged across the country and prepared to mobilize any security assets needed to assist federal partners – as well as state and local law enforcement. As always, we ask the public to please report anything that may seem suspicious to law enforcement – 1-800-CALL-FBI and tips.fbi.gov,” the statement said.

The National Terrorism Advisory System currently has no advisories.

When asked if he was concerned there hasn’t been enough attention by federal agencies on potential threats, Talgo said he was and added that the sanctuary status of Chicago and Illinois make for a more welcoming environment.

“I do think that the Chicago Police Department and the governor of Illinois should make sure that people are aware that there could be an attack here in this area,” Talgo said.

The Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security did not agree to The Center Square’s request for an interview.

The Chicago Office of Emergency Management and Communication provided a statement.

“OEMC reminds the public to be aware of their surroundings and to report suspicious activity – especially in large gatherings. If you notice something suspicious call 9-1-1,” the statement said.