NBC News: FBI refocuses agents on counterterrorism over immigration

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is moving counterterrorism agents back to their original roles after they were previously redirected to handle immigration cases, amid concerns about possible threats from Iran.

Don Holstead, the assistant director for counterterrorism, issued instructions over the weekend to reassign agents involved in counterterrorism, counterintelligence, and cyber operations who had been diverted to immigration-related duties, Caliber.Az reports via NBC News.

All four sources linked the decision to fears that Iran might retaliate against the US following recent military strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. Iranian officials warned US authorities about activating sleeper cells within the United States if attacked.

The FBI declined to confirm or deny any operational changes but stated, “However, we continuously assess and realign our resources to respond to the most pressing threats to our national security and to ensure the safety of the American people.” 

For months, current and former FBI officials have raised concerns about a directive requiring FBI staff nationwide—including some specializing in national security—to spend considerable time assisting the Department of Homeland Security with tracking undocumented immigrants, a role not traditionally assigned to the FBI. This mandate was imposed by FBI Director Kash Patel under executive orders from the Trump administration. 

Many current and former bureau officials worried that the FBI’s limited resources could be stretched too thin, potentially undermining the focus on critical national security threats due to the immigration duties. Additionally, there have been notable departures from key national security positions within both the Justice Department and the FBI.

By Naila Huseynova