Sheriff Ed Gonzalez Urges Harris County Residents to Stay Alert Amid National Security Bulletin
As international tensions continue to rise, Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez is urging residents to stay informed and report suspicious activity in response to a federal terrorism advisory triggered by the ongoing conflict with Iran. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued a National Terrorism Advisory System (NTAS) Bulletin on June 22, 2025, warning of a heightened threat environment across the country through at least September 22, 2025.
In a public statement on Monday, June 23, Sheriff Gonzalez confirmed that local law enforcement is taking the alert seriously, even as there are currently no credible threats of imminent violence in Harris County.
“The Harris County Sheriff’s Office is actively coordinating with public safety partners at all levels of government to identify, assess, and swiftly respond to potential threats against our region,” Gonzalez stated. “While we’re aware of no credible threats of imminent violence at this moment, we will remain especially vigilant during this time of international conflict. At the same time, we know that our residents are often the best source of key information that we rely upon to keep our community safe.”
DHS Bulletin: Domestic Threats and International Tensions
The federal Bulletin points to increased risks of domestic violent extremism, anti-Semitic violence, cyber-attacks from pro-Iranian hackers, and possible retaliatory plots targeting U.S. government officials. Officials warn that violent extremists may act independently in response to foreign messaging or religious decrees issued by Iranian leadership.
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Foreign terrorist organizations including HAMAS, Lebanese Hizballah, the Houthis, and the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine have also issued media releases calling for violence against U.S. assets and allies, which could further inspire homegrown plots.
How Residents Can Help Keep Harris County Safe
Sheriff Gonzalez emphasized the importance of public participation in maintaining local safety during this time. He encouraged residents to take the following proactive steps:
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Stay informed by following updates from DHS, CISA, and local authorities.
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Practice cybersecurity vigilance by implementing best practices from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA).
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Report suspicious activity using the nationwide “If You See Something, Say Something®” campaign. In emergencies, call 911. For non-emergencies, contact:
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Harris County Sheriff’s Office: 713-221-6000
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FBI Field Office: fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices
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Houston Fusion Center: 713-884-4710
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Understand what to report by learning about behavioral indicators through the Nationwide Suspicious Activity Reporting Initiative.
“This is not about living in fear—it’s about being informed and engaged,” Gonzalez noted. “You know your neighborhoods best. If something doesn’t seem right, trust your instincts and speak up.”
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The DHS Bulletin also reaffirms that while many of these threats are low-probability, the potential consequences of inaction demand vigilance. Hacktivists and state-backed cyber actors continue to target underprotected U.S. infrastructure, while hate crime perpetrators may seize this moment of global unrest to escalate attacks against Jewish, pro-Israel, or U.S.-affiliated targets.
“Public safety is a shared responsibility,” Gonzalez added. “We all play a role in keeping our communities resilient in the face of emerging threats.”
Stay Connected
Harris County residents are encouraged to subscribe to DHS alerts at DHS.gov/advisories and follow @dhsgov on social media for real-time updates. The NTAS Bulletin will remain active through September 22, 2025, unless extended or updated based on national security assessments.
“We’ve weathered crises before, and we’ll do so again—with calm, courage, and collaboration,” said Gonzalez.
For more updates on safety alerts and community preparedness in Greater Houston, stay tuned to My Neighborhood News.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
