The escalating conflict involving the United States and Israel with Iran has put Europe on high alert. The international police agency Europol has issued warnings of an “increased threat” of terrorism and violent extremism across European territories, alongside a rise in cyberattacks and disinformation campaigns.
Jan op gen Oorth, Europol’s Head of Communications, stated:
“The ongoing US-Israel conflict with Iran has immediate consequences for serious organized crime and terrorism in the EU. The main risks include heightened terrorism and violent extremism, increased cyberattacks targeting EU infrastructure, online fraud schemes themed on the conflict, and the spread of disinformation campaigns.”
Europol highlighted concerns regarding networks connected to Iran in Europe, including groups linked to Iran’s so-called “Axis of Resistance” and criminal networks allegedly operating under Iranian security institutions.
These warnings follow a recent fatwa by Grand Ayatollah Nasser Makarem Shirazi, calling for a holy war against the United States and Israel after the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei during joint US-Israel operations.
Iran has also issued direct warnings to European governments. Esmail Baghaei, spokesperson for Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated that any action against Tehran would be considered “an act of war” in cooperation with its attackers.
Several European governments have reportedly already increased security measures in response.
