The European Union's police agency, Europol, has warned of the possibility of a new wave of attacks by the Islamic State group (ISIS) in various EU countries and the use of new methods by terrorists in their operations. In a report published on Friday, December 3, Europol indicated the likelihood of using novel tactics in terrorist attacks by ISIS supporters in Europe in the 'near future.' The potential for terrorist attacks similar to those that occurred in Iraq and Syria, such as car bombings, hostage-taking, and extortion, are among the methods Europol has suggested European ISIS supporters may resort to. These warnings follow what Europol has termed the 'weakening' of the Islamic State group on the battlefield in the Middle East and the imminent return of European nationals who had joined ISIS. According to reports from European intelligence agencies, Europeans who have joined ISIS possess the ideological and military capability to potentially carry out sabotage operations in Europe. The EU police agency believes that due to the high risk of terrorist attacks on the continent, member states must adopt a coordinated approach towards these individuals to prevent such incidents. The report adds that since dozens of ISIS supporters in various EU countries have the capability to carry out terrorist attacks, an increase in their efforts to conduct individual or group operations within Europe is not unexpected. Europol has stated that ISIS jihadists may use methods such as car bombs and chemical and biological weapons to increase the number of casualties. The agency has also warned about the ability of these individuals to use explosives and cold weapons, even firearms. Targeting and recruiting Syrian refugees residing in Europe is among the dangers highlighted by Europol. The agency identified the UK, which has thwarted at least 12 terrorist attack attempts in the past three years, along with France, Belgium, Germany, and other countries that are part of the international coalition against ISIS alongside the US, as nations most at risk of these potential attacks. According to the report, most of the perpetrators of terrorist operations in Europe have so far been young men with criminal backgrounds who have felt discrimination and humiliation. Analysts of this report believe that converting to Islam or adhering to Islamic teachings alone has not been a factor in the radicalization of these individuals; rather, joining ISIS has provided an opportunity to overcome their personal issues and problems.
Europol Warns of Potential 'Chemical Attacks' by ISIS in Europe
Europol has issued a warning about the potential for new ISIS attacks in Europe, highlighting the use of novel tactics and the imminent return of European nationals who joined the group. The report emphasizes the need for a coordinated response from EU member states to prevent terrorist activities, especially given the high risk posed by ISIS supporters in various countries.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
Europol has issued a warning about the potential for new ISIS attacks in Europe, indicating that ISIS supporters may use novel tactics, including chemical weapons. The report highlights the imminent return of European nationals who joined ISIS and the need for a coordinated response from EU member states.
- Europol warns of potential attacks using methods like car bombs and chemical weapons.
- The report emphasizes the risk posed by returning European nationals who have fought for ISIS.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
ISIS, once controlling large territories in Iraq and Syria, has been significantly weakened but remains a threat due to its ability to inspire attacks worldwide. The return of foreign fighters poses additional risks to European security.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
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