Key homeland security and counterterrorism officials warned of the Iranian threat to the United States and Iran and in particular of its strong links to Hizballah.

During a hearing of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee on Sept. 19, Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano, National Counterterrorism Center Director Matthew Olsen, and FBI Associate Deputy Director Kevin Perkins discussed the ongoing dangers.

Olsen was especially concerned about the link between Iran and Hizballah, since Hizballah operatives have directly trained Syrian government personnel.

Olsen also stated that Iran’s relationship with Hizballah has become “a strategic partnership, both pursuing their aims against Israel and the United States.”