Terror Threat at Cologne Cathedral in Germany... Christmas Tensions Across Europe

Austria and Spain Authorities Also Take Action

During the Christmas holiday, terror threats have escalated across Europe, including at Cologne Cathedral in Germany, prompting local authorities to take action, according to German media reports.

On the 23rd (local time), according to DPA and AFP news agencies, the Cologne police announced that there was a "danger warning" regarding Cologne Cathedral, and they have deployed detection dogs to conduct searches. The Cologne police explained that the warning was related to New Year's Eve, but they began responding from the night of Christmas Eve to ensure the safety of those visiting the cathedral. After the evening mass, the cathedral was closed, and searches were conducted using detection dogs. On the 24th, security checks are planned before allowing visitors to enter.

Local German media reported that authorities in Austria and Spain also detected signs that Islamist extremist armed groups are planning terror attacks in various parts of Europe on New Year's Eve and Christmas, and have taken measures in response. It was reported that Christmas masses in Cologne, Vienna in Austria, and Madrid in Spain could be potential targets. The newspaper also reported that authorities in Austria and Germany have arrested suspects.

In a statement, the Austrian police said they are strengthening security around Vienna's cathedrals, religious events, and Christmas markets. The police stated, "European terror groups are inciting attacks on Christmas events, especially around the 24th," and explained, "According to the current risk assessment and the high level of maintained terror alert, the overall threat level in Austria during the Christmas holiday period remains elevated."

DPA news agency reported that this terror threat may be related to 'IS Khorasan,' the Afghanistan branch of the extremist group Islamic State (IS).

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.