‘Operation Fury Shield’ mobilizes Guard at border, energy sites

On Saturday, Governor Greg Abbott issued an order for the Texas Military Department to enhance patrols and bolster cybersecurity efforts. This directive aims to safeguard the Lone Star State in light of escalating global tensions following recent U.S. military actions in Iran.

In a recent announcement, Texas Governor Greg Abbott revealed the launch of Operation Fury Shield, aimed at enhancing the presence of the Texas National Guard and Department of Public Safety along the southern border, at vital ports, and around critical energy infrastructure. The governor has ordered an increase in cyber defense operations to protect state systems from potential attacks.

While there are currently no public threats directed at Texas, Governor Abbott has pointed to increasing rhetoric from Iranian officials following the reported death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei due to U.S. Israeli strikes occurred over the weekend.

On Saturday night, Governor Abbott expressed his support for President Trump through a social media post, stating, “Texas stands with President Trump.” “The message directed at Iran emphasizes that any acts of aggression toward the United States and its allies will not be accepted moving forward.”

The Iranian government has pledged to take retaliatory action following the reported assassination of Khamenei. On Sunday, Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf issued a stark warning to the United States, stating that Tehran is prepared to deliver “devastating blows” in response to provocations, which would leave the U.S. in a position of seeking mercy, as reported by the Associated Press.

In a statement released on Truth Social early Sunday, President Donald Trump indicated that Iran was anticipated to retaliate “very hard today, harder than they have ever hit before.” He cautioned, however, that any such actions would provoke a U.S. response “with a force that has never been seen before!”

Abbott’s office announced that Operation Fury Shield aims to address both conventional threats and “lone wolf” attacks, as well as potential cyber intrusions targeting public and private systems. The Texas Division of Emergency Management, in collaboration with the Department of Information Resources, is set to work alongside state cybersecurity partners to oversee potential threats and safeguard essential networks.

In a recent statement, Abbott emphasized, “This operation reflects our commitment to keep Texas safe and ready.” "Authorities have pledged to stay alert and ready to address any threats that may affect the safety of Texans."

Operation Fury Shield is currently in its initial phases, with additional information anticipated as the operation progresses and global developments occur.

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