German police successfully foiled a suspected terror plot by ISIS just hours before England’s Euros final. Concerns arose about a potential attack on the Three Lions fan zone at Berlin’s Breitscheidplatz, where thousands of supporters had gathered ahead of the match against Spain. German special forces detained three suspects during coordinated raids in nearby Potsdam. These individuals were already known to be ISIS supporters and were under surveillance by German police. The raids were prompted by pictures taken on phones of Breitscheidplatz and a large church, which led authorities to search three addresses in Potsdam.
This incident is a chilling reminder of the ongoing threat of terrorism, not just in Germany but across Europe. In 2016, Breitscheidplatz was the site of a devastating terror attack when jihadists drove a truck into a Christmas market, killing 12 people and injuring 56. The fact that these suspects were already under surveillance highlights the constant vigilance required in monitoring potential threats.
The German Interior Minister had previously issued a warning about the heightened dangers surrounding the Euros. Nancy Faeser stated that the state was arming itself more strongly against all current threats, emphasizing the need for increased security measures. This sentiment is not unwarranted, as ISIS has previously targeted major sporting events. Last month, the group threatened attacks on the Olympics, and an image depicting a terrorist flying an armed drone into the Eiffel Tower circulated as part of their propaganda.
In response to the ongoing threat, heightened security measures have been implemented in Paris ahead of the Olympics, which start on Friday. British police will be among the 45,000-strong force patrolling the streets of the French capital. Central parts of Paris, including iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, have already been closed to vehicles. France has also taken proactive steps to prevent potential threats by stopping around 130 people on its terrorist watchlist from entering the country.
These incidents serve as a reminder that the fight against terrorism is an ongoing battle. Dutch intelligence agencies report that they have foiled at least 10 terror attacks across Europe in the last year alone. The threat of terrorism remains a significant concern, and it is crucial for authorities to remain vigilant and proactive in their efforts to prevent attacks.
While this foiled terror plot may have disrupted the plans of extremists, it also underscores the need for continued collaboration among international security agencies. By sharing intelligence and working together, countries can enhance their ability to identify and thwart potential threats. The successful prevention of attacks like this highlights the importance of ongoing surveillance and intelligence-gathering efforts in the fight against terrorism.
In conclusion, the foiled terror plot ahead of England’s Euros final serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat posed by extremist groups like ISIS. It highlights the need for constant vigilance and proactive measures to ensure the safety of major events and public spaces. Collaborative efforts among international security agencies are crucial in combating this threat and preventing future attacks.