FBI chief says no indication of increased terror threat over holidays

FBI Director James Comey told reporters Tuesday that there’s been no indication of an increased risk of a terrorist attack over the holiday season.

Asked specifically about possible attacks involving airplanes, Mr. Comey said nothing would make him think an attack would be more likely over the holidays.

“I don’t have information that would lead me to see that concern as uniquely heightened by the coming holiday season,” he said. “There’s nothing about this year’s holiday season that makes it more of a focus than over the summer.”

But Mr. Comey did say his chief worry is American-born terrorists.

“I continue to be concerned about the potential for homegrown violent extremists, especially connected with ISIL,” he said, referencing the group known as the Islamic State that often goes by the acronyms ISIL or ISIS.

Following a failed U.S. military raid that attempted to rescue two hostages held by al Qaeda in Yemen, Mr. Comey reiterated his support for the U.S. position not to negotiate with terrorists.

“I think if we were to change that policy, there would be far more Americans kidnapped around the world,” he said. “I think I feel a large portion of the pain of families as a result of a policy like that; but it is in our national interest and it makes good sense to me.”