‘We are at a state of war’: nyc mayor’s iran warning as homeland security braces for attacks on u.s. soil

The U.S. is on heightened alert after Iran vowed 'harsh retaliation' for an American airstrike in Iraq and that killed a top Iranian general - as it is feared that sleeper cells may be ready to attack in major cities.

The killing of Gen. Qassem Soleimani, the head of Iran's elite Quds Force, on Friday marks a major escalation in the standoff between the U.S. and Iran.

Major cities, including New York and Los Angeles, have already said they are stepping up security in the aftermath of the airstrikes to prevent any revenge attacks.

NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio said they would be protecting key locations from 'any attempt by Iran or its terrorist allies to retaliate against the U.S.'

De Blasio said, “We have to assume this action puts us in a de facto state of war.” Former CIA operations officer, Sam Faddis, warned that Hezbollah sleeper cells were hiding in the U.S. and potentially had targets in its sights.

'It is more than possible that Hezbollah has sleeper cells in the United States ready to strike,' Faddis said.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has already warned that 'harsh retaliation is waiting' for America following the airstrikes.  

On Friday, DeBlasio tweeted, ‘In a series of tweets later on Friday, de Blasio added: 'We are in an unprecedented situation today, but the NYPD is ready for any scenario. New Yorkers will see heightened security at locations around the city, but there is NO credible and specific threat at this time. If you see something, say something.’ 'The NYPD has a strong relationship with our security and intelligence partners around the country and the world. They will be working together non-stop to keep New Yorkers safe, and I have absolute faith in them. Everyone should go about their lives unafraid.’ 'The United States should not go to war with Iran. We are in completely uncharted territory, and no one knows what the consequences of this attack will be in the coming weeks, months and years. This decision can ONLY be made by Congress, speaking for the American people.'

NYPD Commissioner Dermot Shea confirmed additional resources had been deployed.

The Los Angeles Police Department said that while there was currently no credible threat to the city, they were monitoring developments in Iran and were committed to ensuring safety.