Belgium is considering a possible link between the shooting of two Swedish football fans in Brussels and the conflict between Israel and Hamas. The suspected gunman had expressed support for the Palestinian people on social media. The shootings are the country’s worst terrorist incident since the 2016 Brussels bombings.
Belgium is now considering a potential link between the shooting of two Swedish football fans in Brussels and the recent conflict between Israel and Hamas, according to the country’s public broadcaster. Initially, the federal prosecutor stated that there was no evidence connecting the attacker to the war in the Middle East. However, it has now been revealed that the suspected gunman had expressed support for the Palestinian people on social media.
The shooting, which occurred on Monday night, has left Brussels in a state of turmoil. The suspected gunman was later shot and killed by the police. In response, Belgian authorities raised the terror threat warning to its highest level, urging locals to remain vigilant. Schools, universities, and offices, including the European Commission, have been closed as a precautionary measure.
Prime Minister Alexander De Croo has condemned the shooting as a “cowardly attack” and “a harrowing act of terrorism.” He has been holding round-the-clock meetings with his cabinet and security officials to address the situation. The shootings mark the country’s worst terrorist incident since the Brussels bombings in 2016.
The suspect has been identified as Abdeslam Lassoued, a 45-year-old Tunisian. He appears to have acted alone, assembling his rifle in full view before shooting at a taxi carrying Swedish football fans. In a video uploaded before the attack, Lassoued claimed allegiance to the Islamic State and expressed his motivation to avenge Muslims.
Questions have arisen regarding the Belgian security services’ failure to act despite Lassoued being flagged as radicalized months earlier. The suspect had a history of involvement in people-smuggling and had previously applied for asylum, but was rejected and ordered to leave the country.
As authorities continue their investigation, Brussels is striving to return to normalcy. Security has been heightened around key sites, such as embassies, government buildings, and Ikea stores. The government is considering whether to mobilize the army to provide additional security. Despite the tragic incident, efforts are being made to ensure the safety and well-being of the public..