President Obama on Wednesday told the American public that according to U.S. intelligence, there are not any “specific and credible” threats of terrorist attacks in the United States.
He assured Americans that his national security team was working to keep the country safe by monitoring intelligence and stepping up efforts against the Islamic State abroad.
“I want the American people to know entering the holidays that the combined resources of our military, our intelligence and our homeland security agencies are on the case. They are vigilant, relentless and effective. In the event of a specific credible threat, the public will be informed,” he said during a Wednesday press briefing.
“We do think it’s useful for people as they are going about their business to be vigilant. If you see something suspicious, say something. That’s always helpful,” he continued. “But otherwise Americans should go about their usual Thanksgiving weekend activities, spending time with family and friends and celebrating our blessings.”
Obama said it is understandable that Americans are concerned in the wake of the Paris terrorist attacks, but laid out his plan to address the threat of ISIL.
He said that the U.S. is stepping up its coordination with France for airstrikes against the Islamic state, and said that the U.S. has continuously refined its approach to the terrorist organization. He also assured Americans that the U.S. has been working to “prevent foreign terrorist fighters from entering the United States or other nations.”