Asger Risom
Brussels fears resurgence of jihadist groups with potential direct impact on European security
The European Union has issued a stark warning about the rising threat of terrorism linked to instability in Syria.
A working document, seen by Reuters, highlights that recent developments in Syria and the broader Middle East could enable jihadist groups to regroup and threaten Europe.
According to the document, “terrorism and violent extremism continue to pose a significant threat to the European Union and its member states. The overall threat level remains high.”
The report warns that Syria’s deteriorating security situation could lead to either militants attempting to enter Europe or radicalized followers being activated remotely within EU borders, as reported by Digi24.
Renewed Warnings of Islamic State Activity
The EU also cited renewed calls from Islamic State (IS) for attacks in Europe and the United States, viewed as retaliation for Western support of Israel in Gaza.
In early 2024, IS spokesperson Abu Hazifa al-Ansari released an audio message urging supporters to carry out strikes in major Western capitals including Washington, Paris, London, and Rome:
“Make them know they will be held accountable on the streets of the unbelievers for crimes committed in Palestine, Iraq, the Levant, and elsewhere in the Muslim world.”
Persistent Threat Despite Territorial Defeats
Although IS lost control over large territories in Syria and Iraq since its 2014 peak, European authorities stress that the threat remains very real.
The working document underlines the risk that new instability could allow jihadist factions to reassert their influence, posing a renewed security challenge for European nations.