The threat level in Belgium has been at level 3 since October 2023, following a tragic incident where a terrorist claiming allegiance to IS murdered two Swedish football supporters in Brussels. Despite eight months passing, the threat level has not decreased, with OCAD chief Gert Vercauteren stating that it will remain at this level until the end of the summer. Level 3 signifies that the threat is currently serious, with only level 4 being higher, indicating a very serious threat.
One of the factors contributing to the sustained threat level is the situation in Gaza. Vercauteren explains that the conflict in Gaza last October served as a trigger event, leading to an increase in threats and incidents in Belgium. The OCAD recorded numerous reports of threats linked to the conflict, with anti-Semitism often playing a significant role. Even today, a considerable portion of threats in the country are connected to the situation in the Middle East, underscoring the ongoing seriousness of the threat level.
The increased threat level has resulted in heightened vigilance among police and security services, particularly at major events where extra checks may be implemented. The OCAD’s annual report highlights a concerning trend of increasing threats in Belgian society, with 332 reports of possible terrorism or extremism in the past year, marking a 41% increase from the previous year.
Of particular concern is the evolving nature of the threat, with the motives of perpetrators becoming more diverse and less clear. The OCAD notes that perpetrators may not always align themselves with a specific terror group but are influenced by various ideologies, propaganda, and personal grievances. This complexity makes it challenging to pinpoint the exact source of the threat, raising alarms within the OCAD.
Despite the varied nature of threats, the report indicates that the largest threat still comes from Islamist quarters, accounting for over 40% of threat reports with a clear ideology. Threats linked to political opposition abroad, right-wing extremists, anti-establishment sentiments, and left-wing extremists also pose significant concerns, albeit to a lesser extent.
In conclusion, the sustained threat level in Belgium underscores the ongoing challenges posed by terrorism and extremism. The evolving nature of threats, coupled with the influence of global events and individual motivations, necessitates continued vigilance and proactive measures to ensure the safety and security of the country. The OCAD’s comprehensive analysis provides valuable insights into the complex landscape of threats facing Belgium, highlighting the need for a multifaceted approach to address and mitigate these risks effectively.