Obama: US taking every step to prevent attacks

President Barack Obama said Wednesday the United States faces no specific terrorist threat, and security officials will remain vigilant as travel for the Thanksgiving holiday increases.

"We continue to do everything possible to prevent attacks at home and abroad, and to prevent foreign terrorist fighters from entering the United States or other nations," he said.

Obama's remarks came after officials briefed him on the state of homeland security in the wake of the deadly terror attacks in Paris on Nov. 13. He called the possibility of terrorism a "troubling reality" but noted security agencies are "continually evaluating threats."

He touted efforts to secure airlines and borders as well as monitor and share information on potential attacks. He also said the U.S. plans to target the so-called Islamic State "wherever it hides."

On Tuesday, Obama and French President Francois Hollande announced they would boost cooperation on fighting the terrorist group, which claimed responsibility for the Paris attacks. The United States and France plan to increase the scale of airstrikes against the terrorist group and share more information about possible threats.

"We're stepping up the pressure on ISIL where it lives," Obama said Wednesday.

He urged Americans not to alter their plans because of terrorism concerns. He added that "in the event of a specific, credible threat, the public will be informed."

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