New Federal Threat Assessment and Why Christian Families Should Pay Attention

The newest government threat reporting shows instability continues, but Christian men can respond with strength and self control.

Intelligence Assessment

Ongoing Global Jihadist Activity and Implications for Christian Preparedness

Date: February 12, 2026
Source: U.S. Government Counterterrorism Publication (Redacted)

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Executive Summary

Recent U.S. counterterrorism reporting distributed within government channels indicates that global jihadist networks remain active across multiple regions and continue to view houses of worship as symbolically significant targets. While the reporting does not indicate a specific imminent threat to churches in the United States, it confirms several ongoing trends: persistent overseas attacks against religious institutions, accelerating online radicalization including minors, increased use of encrypted communications platforms, and expanding use of artificial intelligence to produce propaganda and manipulate audiences. The assessment suggests a continued environment of ideological hostility toward faith communities and emphasizes the possibility that attacks inspired abroad may be carried out locally by individuals influenced through online channels.

This is not a collapse scenario. It is a reminder that ideological conflict remains active and adaptive.

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Current Threat Environment

1. Houses of Worship Remain Symbolic Targets

Recent overseas attacks against religious facilities demonstrate that houses of worship remain attractive targets due to:

• Symbolic value

• Media impact

• Large predictable gatherings

• Perceived lack of security

Faith communities continue to carry both spiritual and ideological significance to extremist movements. That reality has not changed.

For Christian readers, this means awareness is warranted, not panic.

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2. Online Radicalization Is Accelerating

Authorities abroad have arrested individuals, including minors, for spreading extremist propaganda and attempting to incite violence through social media platforms.

Key observations:

• Radicalization increasingly occurs online.

• Youth involvement is growing.

• Extremist messaging spreads rapidly across borders.

This confirms that ideological influence can reach into Western communities without physical infrastructure.

Preparedness now includes digital awareness.

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3. Encrypted Platforms and AI Propaganda

Terrorist groups are relying heavily on:

• Encrypted messaging applications

• Gaming platforms for communication

• AI-generated imagery and messaging

AI-generated propaganda can:

• Fabricate or exaggerate atrocities

• Manipulate emotional responses

• Create false narratives quickly

In a crisis environment, false imagery can inflame tensions faster than verified reporting can correct it.

Information discipline is now part of preparedness.

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4. Foreign Inspiration, Local Action

A consistent theme in modern terrorism is that ideological direction may originate overseas, but operational action may occur locally.

This means:

• Individuals may self-radicalize.

• Lone actors remain a possibility.

• Traditional group structures are less necessary than in previous decades.

Preparedness must account for decentralized threats rather than organized foreign cells alone.

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Practical, Common-Sense Preparation

The appropriate response is steady preparation, not dramatic reaction.

Personal and Family Level

• Maintain basic emergency supplies for disruptions, food, water, medical supplies.

• Ensure communication plans exist within your family.

• Teach children digital discernment and online safety.

• Avoid amplifying unverified viral content.

Preparedness begins at home.

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Church Level

• Encourage visible, trained security presence.

• Develop relationships with local law enforcement.

• Conduct tabletop exercises for emergency response.

• Establish clear reporting procedures for suspicious behavior.

Visibility deters. Coordination strengthens response.

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Information Discipline

• Slow down before reacting to viral content.

• Verify before sharing.

• Recognize emotionally manipulative imagery.

• Do not let fear drive decisions.

Calm thinking is a preparedness asset.

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Biblical Grounding for These Times

Scripture consistently reminds believers that instability is not new, and fear is not the posture of the faithful.

Readers may consider spending time in:

Psalm 46
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way…”

This Psalm acknowledges upheaval yet centers stability in God’s sovereignty.

2 Timothy 1:7
“For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”

Preparedness without fear. Strength without panic.

Matthew 24
Jesus speaks plainly about wars, rumors of wars, and turmoil. He instructs believers not to be alarmed.

Awareness does not equal alarm.

Psalm 112:7
“He is not afraid of bad news; his heart is firm, trusting in the Lord.”

The goal is steady hearts.

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Assessment Conclusion

Global jihadist networks remain active. Online radicalization continues. Faith communities retain symbolic value to extremist movements. These realities require measured preparedness, disciplined thinking, and visible deterrence at houses of worship.

They do not require anxiety.

Christian preparedness is not driven by fear of headlines. It is grounded in wisdom, order, and trust in God’s sovereignty while taking responsible action.

Preparedness and faith are not opposites. They are complementary expressions of stewardship.