Because of Hamas terror
November 24, 2023
Experts from several European countries warn of a “major threat to the civilian population”.
Europe’s top security officials warn of a growing risk of attacks in Europe by Islamists. The reason: They were radicalized by the Israel-Hamas war, with the biggest threat likely coming from “lone wolves” who are difficult to locate.
According to Portal, more than 10 intelligence and police officers from five European countries – including Britain, Germany and France – say they are increasing surveillance of Islamic militants.
“One of the most challenging threats”
This will put even more pressure on resources already stretched when dealing with threats from Russia, China and Iran. London Police Chief Mark Rowley describes the situation as “one of the most challenging threats I have ever seen”.
Calls for violence in Europe
Another British security official says the fight against terrorism in Gaza will likely be the biggest recruiter of Islamic militants since the 2003 Iraq war. The fact is: calls for attacks on Jewish and Western targets have increased in Europe.
Dangers from various groups
A German intelligence source says the threat to civilians is the greatest in Germany’s recent history, with threats posed by Islamic militants, far-right groups and Russia.
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Two Islamist attacks in France (a teacher was killed by a man claiming support for ISIS) and Belgium last month left three people dead, and those two countries, Austria, Slovenia and Bosnia-Herzegovina, have had their terrorist alert levels reduced. increased.
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Jochen Kopelke, a police officer and head of Germany’s largest police union, told Portal the biggest threat was “self-radicalized” people. “It’s only a matter of time before these people commit crimes,” he said. “It’s not always about them having a bomb. They can drive a car into a meeting or attack with a knife.” Kopelke said Christmas markets are potential targets.