The Islamic State has called on its supporters to carry out lone wolf attacks against Christians and Jews in the US, Europe, and Israel, following a 41-minute audio speech by spokesperson Abu Hudhayfah al-Ansari praising the deadly Moscow shooting and urging more violence. The group also spoke about further attacks on US troops in Iraq and called on its cells in Mozambique and the Philippines to continue their activities, while Russian intelligence has accused the US, UK, and Ukraine of being behind the Moscow attack.
The suspects accused of plotting the mass shooting in Moscow belong to ISIS-K, an ISIS branch that has attempted multiple terrorist attacks in Europe, particularly in France. France has raised its terror alert level to the highest level and plans to boost security at sensitive sites. Other European countries, including Italy and Germany, are also increasing security measures in response to the heightened threat. Western allies are growing alarmed at the surge in ISIS-K activity, particularly after the group claimed responsibility for the Moscow concert hall shooting. The U.S. intelligence community is closely monitoring ISIS-K's activities and planning, while also warning of possible "imminent" extremist attacks in Moscow.
At least 40 people were killed in a "bloody terrorist attack" at a concert hall in Moscow. Meanwhile, concerns have been raised about the legitimacy of Putin's election landslide victory, with official results showing he won 9 out of every 10 votes. Additionally, the recent Russian presidential contest has been eventful, with attacks on polling stations and opposition leader Navalny's strategy to challenge Putin. In the Netherlands, far-right election winner Wilders has abandoned his pursuit of the prime minister job after coalition talks reached an impasse.
