Attempted Terror Attack Near Israeli Consulate in Munich Thwarted
A suspected terrorist attack near the Israeli Consulate in Munich was foiled on Thursday when the attacker was fatally shot by police, prompting a massive security response.
Shootout Near Israeli Consulate
The incident began around 9am when a young man was spotted carrying a "long-barreled gun" with a bayonet attached in the Karolinenplatz area, close to downtown Munich. Five officers were at the scene and responded with gunfire. The 18-year-old shooter, later identified as a Muslim from Austria, died at the scene.
German police immediately deployed 500 officers to the area, fearing more potential attackers. The Israeli consulate was believed to be the target, especially since the incident occurred on the anniversary of the Palestinian terror attack on the 1972 Munich Olympics, which resulted in the deaths of eleven Israeli athletes. However, investigators are still examining the motive.
Attack on Israeli Institution Suspected
In a subsequent press briefing, German authorities confirmed they are treating the shooting as a "possible attack on an Israeli institution," as stated by State Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann. The weapon used was revealed to be a vintage rifle.
Dr. Josef Schuster, the head of the Central Council of Jews in Germany, expressed his shock at the incident, saying, "What we do know takes our breath away." He thanked the police for their swift intervention, acknowledging that the situation could have escalated into a catastrophe.
Gunman Known to Security Authorities
Spiegel news outlet reported that the gunman was already known to security authorities as an Islamist living in Austria’s Salzburg area, near the Bavarian border.
"We have to assume that an attack on the Israeli Consulate possibly was planned early today,” said Bavaria’s top security official, state Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann. "It’s obvious that, if someone parks here within sight of the Israeli Consulate ... then starts shooting, it most probably isn’t a coincidence."
Interestingly, the consulate was closed at the time of the shooting, with diplomatic staff planning to attend a memorial ceremony for the 1972 attack. No Israeli personnel were injured in Thursday's incident.
Questions Raised Over Security Measures
The fact that the young Islamist was already known to German authorities raises questions about his ease of entry into the country from Austria, and why he wasn't apprehended and questioned earlier. There are also concerns about how he was able to wander around central Munich in broad daylight, brandishing a large vintage gun with a bayonet, for a considerable amount of time.
Bottom Line
This incident highlights the ongoing threat of terrorism and the need for vigilance and effective security measures. It raises questions about how well authorities are able to track known threats and prevent potential attacks. What are your thoughts on this incident? Do you think more could have been done to prevent it? Share this article with your friends and let us know your thoughts. Remember, you can sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.
