People holding a banner reading “I am Brussels” behind flowers and candles to mourn for the victims at Place de la Bourse in the center of Brussels, Tuesday, March 22, 2016, after a terror attack. (AP Photo/Martin Meissner)WASHINGTON – The Obama administration stepped up security at major transit hubs across the country after Tuesday’s airport and subway bombings in Brussels, as top U.S. intelligence officials warned of the risk for copycat attacks at home. President Barack Obama vowed to help Belgium track down those responsible for the deadly explosions.
Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson stressed there is no “specific, credible intelligence” pointing to a similar plot in America, but he said the Transportation Security Administration would deploy additional security at major airports and rail stations in different cities. Officials also reviewed additional security measures for travelers fromBelgium, among more than three dozen countries whose citizens generally don’t need a visa to enter the U.S.
The State Department warned Americans about potential risks to travel in Europe. “Terrorist groups continue to plan near-term attacks throughout Europe, targeting sporting events, tourist sites, restaurants and transportation,” it said in a statement. Officials advised U.S. citizens to “exercise vigilance” in public places or on mass transportation and to take “particular caution” during religious events or large events.
The attacks in the Belgian capital underscored the growing threat posed by the Islamic State group on both sides of the Atlantic. The bombs in Brussels’ airport and subway locked down the European Union’s capital just a few months after attacks shocked Paris and San Bernardino, California.
“We will do whatever is necessary to support our friend and ally Belgium in bringing to justice those who are responsible,” Obama declared in Havana, where he was closing his historic, three-day visit. The attack immediately overshadowed events on the island, with Obama addressing the tragedy at the top of a keynote speech to the Cuban people and again at an exhibition baseball game.