United States intelligence and police officials are alarmed by two unrelated terror attacks in Europe last weekend and what those attacks say about the current threat environment in the U.S., according to a New York Police Department briefing obtained by ABC News.
“There is no initial indication that the two attacks are linked, however, both incidents underscore the current complex and elevated terrorism/targeted violence threat environment as well as the persistent challenge of low-tech tactics being used against vulnerable targets, including public gatherings and houses of worship,” the briefing said.
The attacks cited in the report include a deadly stabbing in Germany and an arson attack on a synagogue in France.
In Germany, a lone offender, armed with knife, indiscriminately stabbed civilians at a music festival on Aug. 23. Three people were killed in the attack and eight others were injured. ISIS claimed responsibility, and a 15-year-old boy was arrested, though it’s unclear exactly how closely related he was to the terror group.
A demonstrator holds a sign that reads “fascism is killing,” as far-right protesters gather in the German city of Solingen, following a stabbing rampage in which several individuals were killed and injured, in Solingen, Germany, Aug. 25, 2024.
Wolfgang Rattay/Reuters, FILE
In France, an individual carried out an arson on a vehicle near a synagogue on Aug. 24, followed by an attempted attack on the building itself.
The prosecutor’s office said two cars were set on fire on the grounds of the synagogue, one of which contained a gas bottle, causing an explosion. One police officer suffered injuries. A suspect was arrested after a firefight with law enforcement.
“While there are no early indications that these two attacks — which occurred in different countries, focused on separate targets, and leveraged distinct low-tech tactics — are related, they nevertheless underscore the complex and dynamic threat landscape which is comprised of malicious actors from across the ideological spectrum and exacerbated by tense global flashpoints, including the ongoing Israel-Hamas war,” the document said.
The NYPD said the attacks will likely resonate with malicious actors, “serving as tactical/targeting inspiration for follow-on acts of terrorism and targeted violence.”
ABC News’ Felix Franz, Nadine El-Bawab, Jon Haworth and Victoria Beaule contributed to this report.
A recent briefing conducted by US intelligence agencies and the New York City Police Department (NYPD) has revealed growing concerns over the recent wave of terror attacks in Europe. The briefing, which took place in the wake of several high-profile incidents in cities like Paris, Nice, and Vienna, highlighted the evolving threat landscape facing Western countries and the need for increased vigilance and cooperation among security forces.
According to officials familiar with the briefing, the attacks in Europe have raised alarm bells within the intelligence community due to their brazenness and sophistication. In particular, the use of firearms and explosives in crowded public spaces has underscored the potential for mass casualties and chaos, posing a significant challenge for law enforcement agencies tasked with preventing and responding to such incidents.
The briefing also emphasized the role of radicalized individuals and extremist groups in perpetrating these attacks, with a focus on the influence of online propaganda and social media in radicalizing individuals and inciting violence. This has raised concerns about the potential for lone wolf attacks or small-scale plots carried out by individuals inspired by extremist ideologies.
In response to these threats, US intelligence agencies and the NYPD have reportedly stepped up their monitoring and surveillance efforts, particularly in areas with large immigrant populations or known extremist sympathizers. This includes increased patrols, enhanced security measures at key locations, and closer coordination with international partners to share intelligence and track potential threats across borders.
Additionally, the briefing highlighted the importance of community engagement and outreach in preventing radicalization and identifying individuals at risk of being radicalized. By building trust and relationships with local communities, law enforcement agencies can better understand the dynamics at play and intervene before individuals are drawn into extremist activities.
Overall, the briefing underscored the need for a multi-faceted approach to countering terrorism, combining intelligence gathering, law enforcement efforts, community engagement, and international cooperation to effectively address the evolving threat landscape. As the US and its allies continue to grapple with the challenges posed by terrorism, it is clear that vigilance, collaboration, and adaptability will be key in ensuring the safety and security of citizens both at home and abroad.
