Brussels, Belgium – A gunman believed to be inspired by the Islamic State is at large after executing a deadly shooting spree in the heart of Brussels, leading to the death of two Swedish citizens and injuring another.
The tragic incident unfolded against the backdrop of the Euro 2024 qualifier soccer match between Belgium and Sweden at the King Baudouin Stadium. Officials were forced to suspend the game during halftime due to growing security concerns.
Footage from the scene reveals the attacker, clad in a fluorescent jacket, alighting from a scooter and brandishing what seemed to be an assault rifle before initiating his attack. The self-identifying assailant, Abdesalem Al Guilani, later released a video on social media, declaring his association with the Islamic State and indicating the Swedish nationality of the victims as a possible motive.
In the wake of this shocking event, Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo expressed his sorrow over social media, addressing his Swedish counterpart and emphasizing the shared objective of combating terrorism. “Our thoughts are with the families and friends who lost their loved ones. As close partners, the fight against terrorism is a joint one,” De Croo stated.
Authorities have refrained from linking the attack to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, despite previous concerns. Instead, attention has shifted to Sweden, where recent Quran-burning incidents have ignited fierce demonstrations in Muslim-majority nations. This, in turn, prompted both Sweden and Denmark to reevaluate their liberal stances on freedom of speech.
As Brussels grapples with the aftermath, the terror threat level has been elevated to its maximum. Law enforcement agencies are working in tandem with the Ministry of the Interior to ensure the safety of the city’s residents. Simultaneously, the Belgian Crisis Center has implored the public not to circulate images or videos from the incident out of respect for the victims.
Belgian Foreign Minister Hadja Lahbib wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter, that she was “horrified by the terrorist attack that claimed two victims in the heart of Brussels.” “We must mobilize all available resources to combat radicalism.
European leaders have united in condemning this act of terror. French President Emmanuel Macron described the event as a jolt to Europe’s core, while European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen voiced her solidarity with the victims and their families. As the manhunt continues and Brussels remains vigilant, the global community awaits justice for this senseless act of violence.