Homeland Security Sec. Noem Updates Governors Following U.S. Strikes on Iran

U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem held a briefing with state governors over the weekend concerning public safety measures. This follows President Donald Trump’s decision to bomb nuclear sites in Iran.

On Monday, Iran’s state media reported retaliatory strikes aimed at a U.S. military base in Qatar. DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin stated, “Secretary Noem has spoken with Governors nationwide, as well as state and local law enforcement to ensure our partners at every level of government have the information they need to keep their communities safe.” She emphasized the government’s duty to maintain safety during times of conflict.

Noem, former governor of South Dakota, was nominated to lead DHS by Trump. Although DHS did not specify when the briefing occurred, multiple reports confirmed that the U.S. bombed three nuclear sites in Iran over the weekend. This military action follows coordinated attacks conducted by Israel on Iran’s military infrastructure, aimed at thwarting Iran’s progress toward developing atomic weapons. In retaliation, Iran has executed missile and drone strikes against Israel.

Trump has consistently affirmed that Iran should not have access to nuclear weapons. However, Tulsi Gabbard, his National Intelligence Director, recently claimed Iran halted its nuclear weapons program in 2003.

In a weekend interview, Gabbard addressed her earlier statements, asserting they were misunderstood and expressed her support for Trump’s decision to strike Iran.

In light of these developments, governors across the U.S. reported on precautionary measures taken to address potential physical or cyber threats. Maryland Governor Wes Moore said he maintained close communication with state military officials to ensure the safety of Maryland residents.

Nebraska’s Governor Jim Pillen thanked Noem for her briefing and commended the president’s leadership, noting there were no immediate threats to Nebraska. North Carolina Governor Josh Stein highlighted the focus on public safety during the meeting, assuring coordination among local, state, and federal agencies to counter any possible retaliatory threats.

Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs and Georgia Governor Brian Kemp also discussed potential retaliatory attacks, with Kemp stating, “We are coordinating with law enforcement on all levels as we closely monitor any possible threats.” Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey acknowledged no current threats to her state but emphasized ongoing monitoring in conjunction with federal and local partners.

Following the meeting, Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe encouraged residents to report any suspicious activity, citing heightened awareness across law enforcement agencies in the state.