Säpo Monitors Middle East Developments Amid Rising Terror Threats

In Sweden, Säpo is closely monitoring events in the Middle East, but it remains unclear whether the recently lowered terror threat level will be raised again.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced yesterday that there is an elevated threat level against the U.S. following recent developments in the Middle East, according to NBC News.

Several experts have warned that the risk of terrorist attacks in Sweden and Europe is increasing after the attacks. In Sweden, Säpo is observing the situation to determine how the threat landscape against Sweden is affected.

– It is a serious development, and something we are following closely. We assess what impact this may have on the security threat against Sweden, and we take measures as needed to prevent, avert, or reduce the ability of foreign powers to conduct security-threatening activities here, says Karin Lutz, spokesperson for Säpo.

Assessment of Whether the Terror Level Should Be Raised

As recently as May, the terror threat level in Sweden was lowered from 4 to 3 on the five-point scale. Whether this will change due to the situation in the Middle East remains to be seen.

– It is a long-term and strategic threat scale. At the moment, I have no information that it will change, but it is an assessment and a decision that the Security Police will make if necessary, says Karin Lutz.

Could Sweden become a potential target in terms of terror threats?

– Previously, we have seen and been able to confirm that the Iranian regime has used criminal networks in Sweden to carry out acts of violence against other states. We are making assessments to see how this development could affect the security situation against Sweden, says Karin Lutz.

The previous bag ban has been lifted. Is this something that might change now ahead of concerts and events this summer?

– The bag ban is a matter for the police authority. We assess how the terror threat level looks against Sweden. It is seen as a signal for others to take action, and the bag ban was such a measure that the police authority took, she says.