The UK government is currently warning its citizens about the potential threat of terrorism in Austria. According to the official government website, terrorists are likely to attempt attacks in the country. However, the Austrian Ministry of the Interior reassured the public, stating that the warning also applies to several other countries, including Germany, France, Belgium, and Sweden. Furthermore, there are no specific indications of threats related to Easter celebrations in Austria.

The warning was first reported by the Kronen Zeitung. For Germany and France, the warning is even more severe, stating that terrorist attempts are not only likely but “very likely.” The Austrian Ministry of the Interior also clarified that there are currently no concrete threats linked to Easter markets or similar events in Austria.

Current Terror Alert Level: Second Highest

The British warning does not specifically address Easter markets, a spokesman for the Ministry of the Interior emphasized to the APA. The warning instead refers to attacks that could be carried out indiscriminately, for example, in public transport, religious sites, government buildings, or at events. The February terror attack in Villach was cited as an example, and the authorities also pointed out that previous attacks had been prevented.

Austria is currently at its second-highest terror alert level. Since the Hamas attack on Israel, there has been an increased police presence nationwide, which will remain in place. An elevated police presence is also expected at major events and gatherings, such as Easter celebrations and markets.

FPÖ Criticism

Meanwhile, the Freedom Party (FPÖ) has criticized the Austrian People’s Party (ÖVP). FPÖ Secretary-General Michael Schnedlitz stated in a press release that the British terror warning highlights a “total failure” of the ÖVP’s Interior Minister, Gerhard Karner. The party also argued that the surveillance of messaging services, which the ÖVP has been advocating for, is merely a “placebo.”