The Dutch intelligence agency "AIVD" reported today, Tuesday, that "Western intelligence agencies prevented at least 10 attacks by militants across various parts of Europe last year, and the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas has increased the risk of other attacks." In its annual report, the agency stated that the thwarted attacks included plans for random stabbings of individuals and preparations for assaults on specific buildings and events. However, it did not provide further details.
The Dutch agency clarified that "there were two significant cases: the desecration of the Qur'an in the Netherlands and other European countries, and the conflict between Israel and Hamas." Sweden raised its security alert level for terrorism to the second highest level in August, after the burning of the Qur'an and other incidents in the country sparked anger among Muslims and led to threats from militants. In October, two Swedish football fans were shot dead in Brussels by a man who identified himself as a member of the Islamic State.
