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Summary:
This report focuses on a possible terrorist nuclear attack on a U.S. seaport, a lowprobability but high-consequence threat. Ports are vulnerable, and an attack could affect the global economy as well as cause local devastation. Terrorists might obtain a bomb in several ways, though each presents difficulties. Current ability to detect a bomb appears limited. The United States is seeking to thwart a potential attack through intelligence, technology, cooperation with other nations, etc. Issues for Congress include choosing an appropriate level of effort, safeguarding foreign nuclear material, improving port security, and mitigating economic effects of an attack. This report will be updated as developments occur.
