President Joe Biden condemned the recent terrorist attack in New Orleans that killed at least 15 people and injured many others, describing the assault as “despicable” and expressing solidarity with the victims. He assured the nation that the government would continue to support New Orleans as the city mourns and recovers. In his address, Biden emphasized that the U.S. was united with the people of New Orleans during this difficult time.
The president was briefed by the FBI, who informed him that the suspect, identified as 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar, posted videos on social media just hours before the attack, indicating that he was inspired by ISIS and expressing a desire to commit murder. Biden stressed that the investigation into the attack is still ongoing and cautioned against jumping to conclusions, assuring the public that they would be kept informed as new details emerged.
Despite the horrific assault, Biden expressed confidence that the spirit of New Orleans, known for its rich culture and resilient people, would not be broken. He praised the efforts of first responders, homeland security, and law enforcement agencies for their swift action in the aftermath of the attack.
The attack occurred just after the start of the new year when Jabbar drove a truck bearing an ISIS flag into a crowd in New Orleans. The suspect, a U.S. citizen and Army veteran, was fatally shot in a gunfight with police officers. In response to the attack, security measures in New Orleans have been heightened, particularly around upcoming major events like the Sugar Bowl, Super Bowl, and Mardi Gras.
Following the incident, the Sugar Bowl college football game, originally scheduled for Wednesday night, was postponed to allow for additional security resources. The game’s organizers made the decision to prioritize public safety and ensure that the event could proceed with the necessary measures in place.
Biden also briefly addressed an explosion involving a Tesla Cybertruck outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas, which is being investigated as a possible terrorist attack. Although authorities are looking into any potential connection between the two incidents, Biden stated that there was no significant update on any link at that time.
In response to the New Orleans attack, Biden had a discussion with key homeland security and law enforcement officials, including Attorney General Merrick Garland, FBI Director Christopher Wray, and Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. He assured the public that all available resources would be utilized to determine the full details of the attack and to eliminate any remaining threats.
As part of the response to the attack, Biden directed federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to work together to uncover the truth behind the event and ensure that New Orleans remains safe from further danger.
