The United Kingdom has elevated its national terrorism threat level from "substantial" to "severe," indicating that an attack is now considered "highly likely" within the next six months. The decision, announced by the Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre (JTAC), comes in the wake of a stabbing incident in Golders Green, north London, where two Jewish men were attacked.
Police have declared the attack, which occurred on Wednesday, as a terrorist incident. The victims, identified as Shloime Rand, 34, and Moshe Shine, 76, were both stabbed near a synagogue in the predominantly Jewish neighborhood of Golders Green. Both men were taken to hospital, and their conditions have not been publicly disclosed.
"Severe" is the second-highest threat level in the UK's five-tier system, meaning an attack is highly likely but not imminent. JTAC stated that the increase follows a thorough assessment of the current threat landscape, including recent events and intelligence.
Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the police. The investigation into the Golders Green attack is ongoing, with counter-terrorism officers leading the probe.