Islamic State intensifies threats to Europe's major events
The Islamic State Province of Khorasan poses threats to major events, including the Venice Carnival, reports "Bild". "The threat is serious," warns a security official.
Islamists from the organization known as the Islamic State Province of Khorasan (IS-K) have been threatening attacks on significant events and festivals across Europe. According to "Bild", potential targets could include the Venice Carnival, Oktoberfest in Munich, the Cannes Film Festival, and the Vienna Opera Ball. These threats have been disseminated via the IS-K propaganda platform Al Azaim Media.
"This is a terrifying call for action from the Islamic State to its followers. They are being urged not to delay but to carry out attacks this year," reported "Bild".
The Islamic State Province of Khorasan was responsible for the devastating attack on the Moscow concert hall almost 10 months ago, which resulted in over 140 fatalities. Following the attacks in the German cities of Solingen and Magdeburg, as well as in New Orleans (USA), security services remain vigilant.
Terrorist threat in Europe
A security official explained to "Bild" the seriousness of the threat: - The ongoing conflict with Israel continues to incite a high level of mobilisation among Islamists. Moreover, recent attacks have demonstrated that a car or a knife is sufficient for causing harm, and potential attackers are aware of this too.
The terrorist organisation intends to instill fear and panic by reiterating a public call for attacks and naming major public events and festivals as possible targets.
- We face a dilemma; naturally, we do not wish to incite panic, but it is our duty to provide an honest warning as the risk of a terrorist attack remains as high as ever, the official stated. - Regrettably, it must be acknowledged that following recent incidents, the probability of further attacks has increased significantly, he added.
