Overview
- Special police units detained a 22-year-old Syrian in Berlin-Neukölln on Saturday on suspicion he planned a suicide attack in the capital.
- Investigators found materials in his apartment from which an explosive device could be made, according to the reporting.
- Federal Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt said the case shows the terrorism threat in Germany remains high.
- Analysts say jihadist activity has risen since October 7, 2023, with possible undetected cells in Germany and the Islamic State growing its footprint in parts of West Africa.
- Experts call for tighter platform regulation, stronger digital capabilities, and reinforced protections at large public events such as Christmas markets, while stressing that full safety in open spaces is unattainable.