US Military Reports European Forces Remain on High Alert Amid Increased Terrorism Threats

The U.S. military responded to reports that bases across Europe were on their second-highest level alert, emphasizing that its European command will “remain vigilant.”

Reports from various news outlets, citing unnamed U.S. Department of Defense and military officials, revealed that the Force Protection Condition (FPCON), or “Charlie,” alert level was activated over the weekend.

An unnamed U.S. defense official informed Fox News that there is credible intelligence indicating a potential attack against U.S. bases in the upcoming week. The Epoch Times could not verify these reports immediately.

CNN reported that two unnamed military officials expressed concerns about the possibility of a terrorist attack in Europe, though limited details were provided. ABC News also reported a heightened threat level across Europe, according to two U.S. military officials.

In response to these reports, a U.S. Department of Defense spokesperson informed The Epoch Times that they are continually evaluating security and safety factors. The spokesperson stated, “For operational security reasons, we will not discuss specific measures, but we are staying vigilant.”

“As part of our efforts, we often implement additional measures to ensure the safety of our service members,” the statement continued.

The statement emphasized that the European Command is constantly monitoring the security situation to keep its personnel informed and prepared to ensure the safety of themselves, their families, and loved ones. They advised personnel in the European theater to remain vigilant and alert at all times.

The statement did not directly address the reports from unnamed military officials. European officials have expressed concerns about a potential terrorist attack due to the upcoming Paris Olympics in July and the European soccer championships in Germany.

Despite this, recent bulletins from various U.S. embassies have not indicated any warnings of a terrorist attack in European countries.

The U.S. military uses different force protection levels, including Normal, Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, or Delta, with Delta being the highest state. Bravo was a common alert level for many U.S. bases in the years following the September 11, 2001, attacks.

German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser stated last month that officials are particularly concerned about the potential for a terrorist attack, especially Islamist terrorism, during the soccer event. She mentioned that around 22,000 police officers will be deployed each day for security.

FBI Director Christopher Wray has issued multiple warnings about the increasing terrorist threat within the United States. He highlighted the calls for attacks against Jewish communities by foreign terrorist groups like ISIS and al-Qaeda.

Former CIA Director Michael Morell also emphasized the urgency of acting to mitigate the terrorist threat in the United States.

Reuters and The Associated Press contributed to this report.