The US military has increased the alert level for several bases in Europe to the second-highest tier, according to multiple American media reports on Sunday.
Citing unnamed officials, ABC News and CNN reported that the bases across Europe have been elevated to the “Charlie” alert level. This level is initiated when “an incident occurs or intelligence is received indicating some form of terrorist action or targeting against personnel or facilities is likely,” as stated on the US Army’s website.
The highest alert level, “Delta,” is reserved for situations where a terrorist attack has occurred or is “imminent.”
When contacted by AFP, the US European Command (USEUCOM) did not confirm the status change but stated, “we remain vigilant.”
The Pentagon added that “due to a combination of factors potentially impacting the safety and security of US service members and their families stationed in the European theater, US European Command is redoubling its efforts to stress vigilance during the summer months.”
The US State Department currently advises American citizens in Germany, where USEUCOM is headquartered, to exercise increased caution due to the threat of terrorism.
Although no specific threat has been identified, European nations have been on heightened alert since a March attack by gunmen that killed nearly 150 people outside Moscow, an act claimed by the Islamic State (IS) group.
France has also ramped up its alert level in preparation for the Paris Olympics, while Germany is hosting an international football tournament.
