US steps up security amid fears of Brussels copycat attacks

Department for Homeland Security stresses there is no ‘specific, credible intelligence’ pointing to a similar plot in America

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Obama administration stepped up security at major transit hubs across the country after Tuesday’s airport and subway bombings in Brussels, as top US intelligence officials warned of the risk for copycat attacks at home. President Barack Obama vowed to help Belgium track down those responsible for the deadly explosions.

Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson stressed there is no “specific, credible intelligence” pointing to a similar plot in America, but he said the Transportation Security Administration would deploy additional security at major airports and rail stations in different cities. Officials also reviewed additional security measures for travelers from Belgium, among more than three dozen countries whose citizens generally don’t need a visa to enter the US.

The attacks in the Belgian capital underscored the growing threat posed by the Islamic State group on both sides of the Atlantic. The bombs in Brussels’ airport and subway locked down the European Union’s capital just a few months after attacks shocked Paris and San Bernadino, California.

“We will do whatever is necessary to support our friend and ally Belgium in bringing to justice those who are responsible,” Obama declared in Havana, where he was closing his historic, three-day visit. The attack immediately overshadowed events on the island, with Obama addressing the tragedy at the top of a keynote speech to the Cuban people and again at an exhibition baseball game.

“The world must unite,” Obama said after offering his condolences in a telephone call with Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel. “We can and we will defeat those who threaten the safety and security of people all around the world.”

Several Americans were injured, including an Air Force officer and his wife and four children who were at the airport. The service member is stationed at Joint Force Command Brunssum, in the Netherlands, but the military wouldn’t identify him by name. Officials said he was a lieutenant colonel.

People hold a banner reading 'Je suis Bruxelles' (I am Brussels) in tribute to victims at a makeshift memorial in front of the stock exchange at the Place de la Bourse in Brussels on March 22, 2016. (AFP / KENZO TRIBOUILLARD) — People hold a banner reading ‘Je suis Bruxelles’ (I am Brussels) in tribute to victims at a makeshift memorial in front of the stock exchange at the Place de la Bourse in Brussels on March 22, 2016. (AFP / KENZO TRIBOUILLARD)

Mormon church officials, meanwhile, said three of its missionaries from Utah were seriously injured in the blasts and were hospitalized. They were identified as Richard Norby, 66, of Lehi; Joseph Empey, 20, of Santa Clara; and Mason Wells, 19, of Sandy. They had been serving in Paris and were at the airport with a fourth missionary who was on her way to an assignment in Ohio.

Following the attacks, US European Command announced new prohibitions on unofficial military and Defense Department employee travel to Brussels “until further notice.” Official travel to the NATO hub in the city now requires approval.

Secretary of State John Kerry, accompanying Obama in Cuba, said in a statement the US was working to determine the status of all Americans in Brussels. The embassy there issued a statement telling US citizens to stay where they are and “take the appropriate steps to bolster your personal security.”

In the United States, the Homeland Security Department said it could further enhance security measures “as appropriate, to protect the American people.” It urged Americans to report any suspicious activity to law enforcement authorities.

Johnson said last week that officials were monitoring world events while evaluating whether to raise the nation’s security posture or issue another bulletin via the government’s National Terror Advisory System. A bulletin was issued in December after American-born Syed Rizwan Farook and his Pakistani wife, Tashfeen Malik, killed 14 people in San Bernardino.

A picture taken off CCTV showing suspects in the Brussels airport attack on March 22, 2016 (Twitter)

The administration has described the couple as radicalized Muslims inspired by the Islamic State and other extremist groups, but hasn’t linked them to any terrorist cell or network.

Rep. Adam Schiff, the House Intelligence Committee’s top Democrat, said the threat of copycat or lone-wolf attackers may get worse as the Islamic State faces increased military pressure by the US-led air campaign in Iraq and Syria.

“In terms of targets, this may be one of the most dangerous phases,” Schiff told The Associated Press shortly after being briefed on the attacks. “ISIS is facing pressure on the battlefield and they are suffering defeats. To enhance their prestige … they feel the need to lash out at Western targets.”