The Al Azaim Foundation, a media outlet affiliated with the terror group, has reportedly warned of potential attacks on four stadiums hosting this week’s quarter-final matches.
Reports indicate that ISIS militants have threatened to target Champions League games, including the Arsenal vs. Bayern Munich match at the Emirates Stadium in London tonight.
Authorities in Madrid have stated they are “on alert” in response to the apparent threat by the Islamic State (ISIS) against stadiums hosting Champions League matches this week.
According to reports, the Al Azaim Foundation, responsible for disseminating ISIS messages, has threatened to attack all four venues hosting this week’s quarter-finals.
These venues include the Emirates Stadium in London, where Arsenal will play against Bayern Munich tonight, and the Santiago Bernabeu, where Manchester City will face Real Madrid.
A social media post by the group with the message ‘kill all’ also mentioned the Parc des Princes in Paris and the Metropolitano in Madrid, both of which will host matches tomorrow.
Reports from Spain indicate that authorities in Madrid have activated all their “alert” and “response systems” following the purported terrorist threat.
Norman Brennan, a former officer of the Metropolitan Police, stated that UK security services and police would respond to the alleged threat based on its perceived credibility.
He mentioned that MI5, MI6, and the Met’s anti-terror squad closely monitor all aspects related to terrorism, including threats of attacks.
The Spanish government has implemented security measures for this week’s Champions League matches.
Over 3,000 security personnel have reportedly been assigned to the fixtures in Spain, including more than 2,000 agents from the National Police and Civil Guard.
Fernando Grand-Marlaska, the head of the Ministry of the Interior, emphasized that all security protocols have been enacted to ensure the safety of players and fans attending the matches.
The Islamic State’s most recent attack occurred on March 22 at the Crocus City Hall in Moscow, where gunmen dressed in camouflage killed 143 people and injured 200 others.
Manchester City will face Real Madrid following their 4-2 victory against Crystal Palace, while Arsenal, leading the Premier League, will confront Bayern Munich after their 3-0 win over Brighton.
