Retired US Special Operations personnel warned of credible terror threat
A memo obtained by Al Arabiya English states: 'This message is to inform you of a recent 'Duty to Warn' notification regarding a potential terrorist threat targeting retired senior officials who previously served in the Department of Defense with roles in the Syria/Iraq theater.'
The threat appears to be centered on Florida, home to the US Special Operations Command (SOCOM) headquarters, but it does not directly involve active-duty personnel.
'We respectfully request that you share this information with any retired military personnel you know who are currently residing in Florida. Encourage them to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity to local law enforcement,' the memo reads.
The warning, signed by Provost Marshal Col. Mark Katz, did not specify which terrorist group may be behind the threat. However, it urged recipients to maintain a 'heightened awareness of your surroundings, secur[e] your residences, and report any unusual or concerning behavior to appropriate authorities.'
While the memo, which was first reported by The New York Times, was vague, one retired Green Beret said this type of alert is not unprecedented.
Special Operations forces have played a central role in the US-led fight against terrorism over the last several years, particularly in Iraq and Syria.
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