President Joe Biden has extended a national emergency declaration that has been in effect since the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, citing ongoing threats to America's security.

According to Just The News, the White House issued a notice on Wednesday announcing the extension of Executive Order 13224, which was initially signed by President George W. Bush on September 23, 2001.

This order declares a national emergency under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. The extension continues measures to combat terrorism and address national security concerns that have persisted for over two decades.

The order cites the "unusual and extraordinary threat" posed by individuals who commit, threaten to commit, or support terrorism against the United States.

Ongoing Threat Assessment And Executive Actions

President Biden's decision to extend the national emergency is based on the administration's assessment that the threat of terrorism remains significant.

The White House notice explicitly states that those who engage in or support terrorist activities continue to pose an extraordinary threat to U.S. national security, foreign policy, and economy.

The extension incorporates measures from a subsequent executive order signed by former President Donald Trump in September 2019. This order, known as Executive Order 13886, was intended to strengthen and consolidate sanctions against international terrorism.

By extending these orders, the Biden administration signals its commitment to maintaining vigilance against potential terrorist threats. The extension will remain in effect for one year beyond September 23, 2024, underlining the long-term nature of the perceived threat.

Historical Context And Continuity Of Policy

The national emergency declaration related to terrorism has been a consistent feature of U.S. policy since the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks. Initially signed by President Bush, it has been extended by subsequent administrations, reflecting a bipartisan consensus on the need for ongoing counterterrorism measures.

The original executive order was a response to the "grave acts of terrorism and threats of terrorism" that culminated in the attacks on New York, Pennsylvania, and the Pentagon. It acknowledged the immediate threat of further attacks against U.S. nationals and interests.

By maintaining this state of emergency, the government retains expanded powers to address potential security threats. This includes the ability to impose economic sanctions and take other actions deemed necessary to counter terrorist activities.

Current Security Landscape And Border Concerns

The extension of the national emergency comes amid reports of increased encounters with individuals on the terrorist watch list at U.S. borders. According to Customs and Border Protection (CBP) data cited in the article, there has been a notable increase in the number of known or suspected terrorists (KSTs) encountered at both the northern and southern borders.

From fiscal year 2021 through August 2024, CBP reported 1,856 encounters with individuals on the terrorist watch list. This marks a significant increase compared to previous years, with the highest single-year total reaching 736 in fiscal year 2023.

These statistics have raised concerns about border security and the potential for terrorist elements to exploit vulnerabilities in the immigration system. The data includes encounters at land ports of entry and apprehensions between ports of entry, encompassing both the U.S.-Canada and U.S.-Mexico borders.

National Security Implications And Expert Warnings

The extension of the national emergency order aligns with warnings from national security experts about potential threats. FBI Director Christopher Wray has cautioned about heightened terrorist risks comparable to those present before the 9/11 attacks.

Retired national security professionals have expressed concern about the possibility of imminent terrorist attacks. They have pointed to various factors, including reports of breaches at U.S. military bases by illegal foreign nationals and the alleged facilitation of a "soft invasion" by millions of military-age men entering the country illegally.

These warnings underscore the complex security challenges facing the United States, balancing border control, counterterrorism efforts, and broader national security considerations. The extension of the national emergency provides the government with continued tools to address these multifaceted threats.

Conclusion

President Biden's extension of the 9/11-era national emergency order reflects ongoing concerns about terrorist threats to the United States. The decision maintains continuity with policies implemented by previous administrations since 2001. Amid rising numbers of encounters with individuals on the terrorist watch list at U.S. borders, the extension underscores the persistent nature of security challenges facing the nation two decades after the September 11 attacks.