U.S. attention to terrorism in Latin America intensified in the aftermath of the September 2001 terrorist attacks on New York and Washington, with an increase in bilateral and regional cooperation. Over the past several years, policymakers have been concerned about Iran's increasing activities in Latin America, particularly its relations with Venezuela, although there has been disagreement over the extent and significance of Iran's relations with the region. In the 112th Congress, several initiatives have been introduced related to terrorism issues in the Western Hemisphere regarding Mexico, Venezuela, and the activities of Iran and Hezbollah, and several oversight hearings have been held.

Script from the WBAP-TV/NBC station in Fort Worth, Texas, relating a news story of a hijacked Colombian Airliner with 18 persons aboard is believed to have landed in Havana. The Israeli State Radio says Israel who will begin withdrawing its troops along the Suez Canal.