Sweden's terror threat level elevated due to worsening circumstances

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【Summary】Sweden has raised its terror threat level to high due to a "deteriorating situation" and an increased threat of attacks from actors within violent Islamism. This is the first time the threat level has reached high since 2016. The decision is not based on any single event but is seen in a strategic and long-term perspective. Tensions surrounding demonstrations, including the burning of the Koran, have contributed to the increased tension.

FutureCar Staff Aug 17, 2023 10:33 AM PT

Sweden's terror threat level elevated due to worsening circumstances

Sweden has raised its terror threat level to high due to increasing tensions over Koran burnings during protests. The Swedish Security Police Chief, Charlotte von Essen, stated that the threat of attacks from actors within violent Islamism has increased throughout the year. This marks the first time since 2016 that the terror threat level has reached the high level.

The Swedish government explained that the decision to raise the threat level was based on a strategic assessment of terrorist actors' intention and ability to commit attacks against Sweden. It emphasized that this increase is not dependent on any single event but should be seen in a long-term perspective.

The development of threats against Sweden over a longer period of time is considered serious and affects the country's security, according to the government. However, the recent adjustment in the terror threat level also coincides with heightened tension surrounding demonstrations involving the burning or desecration of the Koran.

In July, both Sweden and Denmark announced that they were exploring legal options to intervene in protests and deter Koran burnings while still upholding freedom of expression. The expulsion of the Swedish ambassador by Iraq earlier this summer further escalated tensions. Iraq's Prime Minister accused Sweden of allowing the burning of the Koran, insulting Islam, and burning the Iraqi flag.

In response to the Koran burnings, the EU condemned the acts in July. Meanwhile, Swedish Defense Minister Carl-Oskar Bohlin highlighted that a disinformation campaign was spreading false claims that the Swedish state was behind the desecration of holy scriptures.