Mullin Sounds Alarm on Terrorist and Cartel Threats

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin recently spoke on The Sunday Briefing, highlighting federal efforts to tackle threats from Mexican cartel alliances, evolving drone threats, and foreign cyber threats. Mullin noted concerns from progressive lawmakers about calls to cut funding for border enforcement agencies.

In a significant move, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is changing its seal. The current seal features an eagle holding a palm leaf and arrows. The new design will have the eagle facing the arrows, symbolizing the department’s ongoing fight against threats. Mullin explained this shift as reflecting the department’s continuous engagement against threats to the U.S.

Ahead of the 25th anniversary of 9/11, Mullin emphasized that the department is engaged in daily battles against perpetrators targeting the U.S., including Islamic terrorists and drug cartels. He described the threat environment as increasingly fluid, spanning terrorism, cartels, cyberattacks, drones, and violence against public officials. Mullin stated, “We’re actually changing our seal to make it look towards the arrows, because when it looks towards the arrows is when it means we’re at war.”

Terrorism remains a top concern, though its nature has evolved. Mullin pointed out, “It’s still terrorists, but the terrorists have joined with the cartels,” emphasizing the connection between Islamic terrorists and Mexican cartels. He highlighted fentanyl overdoses as having claimed more lives than the Vietnam War and praised former President Donald Trump for categorizing cartels as Foreign Terrorist Organizations.

Drone threats are also on the rise. Mullin explained the need for protective measures against aerial threats, which present new challenges to the security infrastructure. “We’re seeing the drone attacks that are starting to take place,” he said. Efforts to secure sensitive areas with fences and armed guards are being complemented by measures against drone threats.

The start of campaign season brought Mullin’s reflections on threats faced by political candidates, stressing the importance of maintaining respectful debate in a republic with varied opinions. “The American people have to realize that we do have a republic, and the republic has different opinions,” Mullin stated, emphasizing prevention of violence.

Cyber threats present another frontier of concern. Mullin identified actors linked to Iran, North Korea, China, and Russia as key sources of cyberattacks, which DHS faces frequently. He underscored the necessity of adaptability in response to shifting risks. “Every single day, I get a briefing. Every single day we have new threats,” Mullin said, stressing the need for continual movement across cyber, sea, air, and land domains.

Max Bacall is an associate editor for Fox News Digital, covering media, culture, and comedy.