Sweden raises terror threat level after Quran burning incidents

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【Summary】Sweden's national security service has raised its terrorist alert to the second highest level following incidents of Quran burning that outraged Muslims. Denmark and Sweden have tightened border controls in fear of revenge attacks. The threat of attack is expected to persist for a long time, and Sweden is now considered a prioritized target for terrorist attacks. The increase in the terror threat level is meant to raise awareness and encourage society to build up its resistance.

FutureCar Staff Aug 17, 2023 10:33 AM PT

Sweden raises terror threat level after Quran burning incidents

Sweden's national security service, SAPO, has raised its terrorist alert to the second highest level, reflecting a "high threat" of attack. This comes after burnings and other acts against the Quran outraged Muslims, leading to fears of revenge attacks. Denmark and Sweden have tightened border controls in response to these concerns.

The actions against the Muslim holy book have sparked widespread condemnation from the Muslim world. Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has called for severe punishment for those responsible and stated that Sweden is in battle mode against the Muslim world.

SAPO head, Charlotte von Essen, explained that Sweden has transitioned from being considered a legitimate target for terrorist attacks to being considered a prioritized target. The increase in the terror threat level is meant to raise awareness that the threat will persist for a while. Von Essen emphasized that the decision to raise the alert level was not based on any specific plan.

The security service's move is aimed at encouraging society to build up its resistance to the increased threat posed by "violent Islamist actors." SAPO wants to ensure that the country is prepared to meet the challenges ahead.

Source: Reuters