Bombings spark security concerns in US as world leaders gather for UN meetings

The Islamic State militant group (ISIS) quickly claimed responsibility for the Minnesota attack.

The incident was investigated as potential acts of terrorism, but did not appear to be linked with the series of bombing attacks in New York and New Jersey, according to police.

Rahami was identified by investigators using the cellphone attached on the explosive device made out from a pressure cooker, as well as his fingerprints left on the device, according to authorities.

Rahami was wounded after exchanging fire with police officers on East Elizabeth Ave in Linden, while two police officers were also reportedly injured during the shootout.

Police had also found a suspicious package and required bomb squad and police dogs to the scene.

The investigation was still underway and it's not clear if there were other suspects involved in the bombings.

US President Barack Obama, who is now in New York City for the annual UN General Assembly, delivered his first statement since the attacks on Monday morning, commending law enforcement officers and first responders for their professionalism and quick response, and urged Americans not to "succumb to the fear."

"The threat to the United States is serious," Robert Shapiro, professor and former chair of the Department of Political Science at Columbia University, told Xinhua.

Prof. Shapiro, however, believed it was "not an existential national threat unless there might be chemical or other large-scale attacks."

"I don't think the timing is related to the UN meeting but perhaps to the US elections," he said.