Twenty-five years after the 9/11 attacks, experts warn that budget cuts, loss of experienced officials, and shifting priorities have increased the risk of future terrorist attacks in the US.
Experts warn that the US counter-terrorism framework, established after the 9/11 attacks, is deteriorating due to budget cuts, loss of experienced personnel, and a reduced focus on terrorism as a national security priority. This has recreated conditions similar to those that existed before the 2001 attacks, according to some analysts. The framework, which was built in response to the 9/11 attacks, has seen its effectiveness erode over time as resources have been redirected to other priorities and experienced officials have left the field.
The Trump administration's policies, including the politicisation of counter-terrorism efforts and the appointment of officials with limited experience in intelligence and law enforcement, have further weakened the system. Additionally, the designation of criminal groups such as Mexican drug cartels as foreign terrorist organisations has stretched resources and diverted attention from traditional counter-terrorism efforts. Analysts note that while there have been no major attacks on US soil since 9/11, the current state of the counter-terrorism architecture raises concerns about the potential for future threats.
Why it matters
Departure of experienced personnel complicates threat detection and response.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.
What to watch
Watch whether security agencies address resource gaps in counter-terrorism planning.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.