U.S. Capitol security "heightened" due to Iran conflict

Andrew Solender

Illustration of the Capitol building with a siren on top. — Illustration: Gabriella Turrisi/Axios

Congressional security officials are instituting "heightened security measures" at the U.S. Capitol in response to escalating conflict in the Middle East, according to a notice to House offices obtained by Axios.

Why it matters: It is a signal of how seriously domestic law enforcement is taking the possibility of attacks on U.S. soil related to ongoing U.S. operations in Iran.

House Sergeant-at-Arms William McFarland wrote in an email Monday afternoon that his office is "working closely with ... law enforcement and intelligence partners to monitor the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East."
"There will be heightened security measures and a noticeable increased police presence across the U.S. Capitol campus."

Between the lines: McFarland stressed that the Capitol Police have "not identified any specific or credible threats" to the Capitol.

"These measures have been put in place out of an abundance of caution," he wrote.
The move comes after the FBI said they are investigating as a potential act of terrorism an Austin shooting by a man who law enforcement said was wearing a sweatshirt reading "Property of Allah" and a shirt with an Iranian flag design.

Editor's note: This story has been updated with additional reporting.

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U.S. Capitol security "heightened" due to Iran conflict

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