The recent US military strike on Iran has raised concerns about potential retaliatory actions, including the possibility of “sleeper cell” attacks occurring both in Australia and overseas. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese addressed these concerns, stating that there has been no change in threat assessments provided by security agencies, including ASIO. He emphasised that the government opposes any violent actions against Australians and aims for peace, in line with sentiments expressed by President Trump.
Albanese reassured the public that security agencies remain vigilant; however, reports from the US indicate a significantly heightened alert level due to sleeper cell threats. Following the strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, US Customs and Border Protection officials described the danger posed by these groups as unprecedented. There are claims that Iran warned President Trump about activating sleeper cells in the lead-up to the military action, which reportedly occurred while he was attending the G7 summit in Canada. The White House has yet to confirm such communications.
Amid these developments, US officials have reportedly intensified their monitoring of potential sleeper cells domestically. Vice President JD Vance stated that the country is prepared for potential Iranian retaliation and expressed concerns regarding immigration policies from the previous Biden administration, suggesting that many individuals entered without extensive oversight.
A sleeper cell consists of operatives who remain inactive until they receive direction to launch an attack, having been embedded within a community or organisation. Such tactics were employed during the Cold War by both the US and Soviet Union for espionage. In Australia, the issue of sleeper agents has intensified, with ASIO previously revealing the existence of a sleeper agent involved in a significant spy ring, highlighting an increasing threat from foreign espionage.
Overall, while the government stresses that current threats are being carefully monitored, the ramifications of the recent US military actions may have broader implications for national security, particularly concerning potential sleeper cells and domestic safety.